Title: Sancti Bonaventurae de Passione Christi. Ad Matutinas, Circa 1575-1599. Near-Miniature Illuminated Manuscript Prayer Book on Parchment, Likely From France
Author: Saint Bonaventura
Condition: Very Good
A late 16th century near miniature illuminated manuscript book of prayer, Saint Bonaventure’s on the Passion of Christ, produced during the fourth quarter of the 16th century, likely in France. This manuscript is an unusual compilation of prayers, beginning with Matins. The manuscript is written in a cursive humanist script, in brown and red, and in an 11-line format. The title page has been decorated with an architectural colored border, with some illumination to the columns.
The recto of leaf 1 has a four-line illuminated and colored initial, and a beautiful floral border with insects and a sphinx. There are 7 more 3-line illuminated initials, with one 2-line initial.
There are three full-page miniatures, fully illuminated and colored. The miniatures include the Flagellation of Christ, the Crucifixion, and the Entombment. The last miniature is a unique multi-figured example using a grisaille technique; a painting executed primarily in shades of grey.
This volume has been beautifully bound in red morocco of the 17th century, in the style of Michel Antoine Padeloup, with rich gilt work to the covers and spine. The functioning clasps are a later addition.
One illuminated manuscript in 32mo (11.7 x 8 cm), (2)+30 leaves on parchment
This manuscript is in very good shape, with minor rubbing and wear to the binding, with light peeling to the rear hinge. There is very light worming to the first four numbered leaves, and a small ink stain to the fifth leaf. There is minor, scattered staining throughout. Some of the pagination has been partially affected by trimming. One of the clasp pins occasionally pokes out, having to be pushed back in.