Flemish Psalter
- Circle of the Franciscan Master
Manuscript in Latin on vellum
Southern Netherlands, Bruges/Ghent, c. 1255–1265
240 x 170 mm
Price on request.
150 leaves. 4 full-page compositions, one of which a historiated initial. 9 large historiated initials, full illustrated calendar, each leaf decorated with an image, showing mostly rural occupations. Numerous 3- to 4-line champie initials, a few partial borders, some with animals, 1-line initials in gold or blue. Contemporary white calfskin binding, remains of two clasps, modern fitted case.
This beautifully decorated Psalter from the Southern Netherlands encompasses twelve calendar illustrations, three full-page miniatures, one full-page ‘Beatus’ initial as well as nine large historiated initials.
As is usual for this type of book, the illuminations are grouped together at the beginning, preceding the text which consists of prayers, psalms, cantica, and litanies. Psalters occupy a vital position within historical manuscript production and use, not just as predecessors of the immensely popular Book of Hours, but as reflections of a changing devotional landscape in Europe.
The pinnacle of psalter production was in the first half of the 13th century. During this time, these devotional manuscripts became increasingly popular with female lay owners who often bequeathed them to their daughters. The style of the manuscript’s decoration is characteristic of the southern Netherlands; including large figures outlined in black, folds and draperies are also emphasised by black outlines against burnished gold. The figures are created with few confident strokes, using a high level of abstraction. This Psalter is a fascinating example of Netherlandish manuscript production oscillating between French and Germanic influences, with three full-page illuminations, one full-page initial, and charming zoomorphic initials throughout the text.
