Missal fragment (16th century)

Fragment of a large leaf, probably taken from a French missal, containing part of Psalm 131, v9-12, on the recto and Psalm 131, v18, and Psalm 132, v1-2 on the verso. Between Psalms 131 and 132, there is a line of square notation on a stave of four lines ruled in red, for the words 'Et om...'. On the verso, there are two 3 line decorated initials, both of the letter E. The fragment dates from around the 16th century.Inscribed in a 19th century hand 'Lyon, cut out of a folio Missal, said to have been part of plunder of the King's Library at Paris, in 1793'.

The Missal is a liturgical book which contains the prayers said by the priest at the altar as well as all that is officially read or sung in connection with the offering of the holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the ecclesiastical year.

Single item.

Access to this collection is unrestricted for the purpose of private study and personal research within the supervised environment and restrictions of the Library's Palaeography Room. Uncatalogued material may not be seen. Please contact the University Archivist for details.

Given by W.A.Myers Ltd. in 1962.

See R Watson 'Descriptive list of fragments of medieval manuscripts in the University of London Library' (1976).

9½" x 7". Musical notation in red and black. The two 3-line initials, both of the letter E, are illuminated, the first in black on a red and blue ground with foliage and a ribbon reserved in white; the second in red touched with white on a gilded ground enclosing a green plant with a blue flower, from which tracery with green leaves, red fruit, blue flowers touched in white and gold stars extends into the margin. The fragment has red and blue capitals with violet and red ornament.

Compiled by Sarah Aitchison as part of the RSLP AIM25 Project.

Copies may be made, subject to the condition of the original. Copying must be undertaken by the Palaeography Room staff, who will need a minimum of 24 hours to process requests.