Medieval prayer book, 1523

Illuminated German prayer book on vellum, 13 x 8 cms, 59 leaves. Core text dated Bamberg 1523. The calendar, dated 1536, is probably a replacement for an earlier calendar. (This could explain why the foliation at end runs to 60, while the number of leaves is 59; nothing appears to be lacking.) Later ownership inscription dated 1554 mentions Augsburg. Empty spaces at beginning and end filled with prayers in different hands.

Illuminated with many historiated renaissance-style borders and 6 full-page paintings with Biblical scenes. The manuscript was produced for an ecclesiastic (priest or monk), who is portrayed in the border on leaf 25 recto with his coat of arms (two lions on gold).

Worn red velvet binding with silver fittings, c. 1900, joints cracked. Volume trimmed, slightly affecting borders and paintings.

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