Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts

Breviary
Italy, Bologna, ca. 1315-1325
MS M.0373 fol. 85r

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Initial E enclosing above, busts of three saints, nimbed; below, two prophets (?), nimbed, each holding scroll with pseudo-inscription in left hand, one looking upward and extending right hand to crossbar of the initial. Left margin decorated with foliate ornament with knots and gold balls, and inhabited by monk, wearing gray habit, looking upward toward initial E, hands raised to text of hymn beginning CONDITOR ALME SYDERUM. In lower margin, two medallions enclosing effaced decoration. Pen-flourished initials. Text is lesson for vespers of Saturday before first Sunday in Advent.