Highlights of the Exhibition
The Elizabeth Perkins Prothro Bible Collection
at
Bridwell
Library
1996-2006
September 7-November 18, 2006
Illuminated Missal
[Missal]. Use of Sarum. Manuscript on vellum. [Salisbury, England: c.1418].
This magnificent folio manuscript of the liturgy
was from the time of its creation a de luxe and precious object.
The text is illuminated throughout in brilliant pigments and gold. This
page includes a historiated initial featuring the Sacrifice of Isaac.
Although only one other page in the text contains such an initial and
elaborately illuminated full border, nearly every remaining page in the
large contains foliate decoration in violet, green, orange, and blue,
illuminated with gold leaf. “Use of Sarum” refers to a liturgy, or
“use,” promulgated around 1087 by St. Osmund, bishop of Sarum, based on
local Anglo-Saxon and Norman practice. This volume is likely to have
been reserved for personal use in a wealthy household rather than a
parish church.
More on the Sarum Missal
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