17th Century - The Matins Antiphonal

Measures: 25" x 17" x 5"

This antiphonal stands as a towering testament to medieval liturgical devotion, its weathered leather binding and heavily reinforced spine contains centuries of sacred binding sheets of thick parchment meant to be read by an entire choir at once. Its massive wooden boards are clad in thick, scarred pigskin and fortified with jagged iron corner-pieces to endure centuries of rigorous monastery use. Four prominent brass bosses decorate and protect the front cover like defensive shields, designed to protect the precious hand-inked Gregorian chants within, from abrasive altar surfaces during liturgical services. With its heavily riveted straps, exposed cords, and ruggedly functional hardware, this liturgical giant is less of a book and more of an architectural artifact, holding within, the weight of ages through sheer craftsmanship.

The beginning leaf states: DOMINICAAD MATUTINUMPer Annum. Invitatorium. Adoremus Dominum, Qui fecit nos. A Septuagesima usque Quadragesimam Præoccupemus faciem Domini: Et in psalmis jubilemus ei. Hymnus maius Primo die, quo Trinitas beata

Translated: SUNDAY AT MATINS Through the Year. Invitatory. Let us adore the Lord, Who made us. From Septuagesima until Lent Let us come before the face of the Lord: And let us make a joyful noise to Him in psalms. Hymn for May On the first day, when the Blessed Trinity