Title: Récit de l'histoire et des Miracles de la Vie de Saint Nizier. The Story of the History and Miracles of the Life of Saint Nizier. Modern Illuminated Manuscript, 19th Century
Author: Jean-Baptiste Charnay (Pseudonym)
Condition: Good
A 19th century modern illuminated manuscript, entitled The Story of the History and Miracles of the Life of Saint Nicetius, who was in his time Archbishop of the City of Lyon.
The text has been written in black ink, rubricated in red and blue, ruled in red ink, and written in a 15-line format. There are large ornate initials throughout, decorated with gouache. There are 24 gouache miniatures throughout, each depicting different episodes of the life of Saint Nicetius, one of which is a larger example. Some of the miniatures have been enhanced with gold ink, much of which has dulled or oxidized over the years. The opening text leaf is heavily illuminated with gold ink. A charming manuscript made in imitation of medieval works.
The producer of this manuscript claims to be a monk named Jean-Baptiste Charnay, who does not appear to be known. The name is possibly a pseudonym using the name of a small town near Macon named Charnay-Lès-Mâcon. The abbey of Saint-Vincent de Mâcon also appears to be similar in origin, likely using the name of the medieval cathedral Vieux-Saint-Vincent de Mâcon, which was first built in the 11th century. There is an inscribed date of 1420, adding to this manuscript’s unusual design.
One vellum bound illuminated manuscript in 16mo, 34 leaves on vellum
This manuscript is in good shape, with some rubbing and wear to the binding. Many leaves are shaken, though holding. There is staining throughout.