The leaf is from a Psalter transcribed in a formal humanistic minuscule by Pietro Ursuleo of Capua (d. 1483), an accomplished scribe and bishop of Satriano from 1474 to 1483 (appointed to the archbishopric of Santa Severina 22 Feb 1483 until his death in April).

The leaf is probably from a Psalter once in the library of John Boykett Jarman (1782-1864), auctioned by Sotheby, Wilkinson & Hodge 13-14 June 1864 (lot 161). It later passed to London book seller James Tregaskis (1850-1926), and was offered for sale between 1912-1913 (catalogues 717, 720, 743). In 1916, the manuscript was broken and leaves sold individually (catalogue 777), with small sections acquired by various members of the book trade in London. Maggs Bros offered this leaf for sale in Catalogue 1059. Papyrus to Paper: Papyri, illuminated initials and leaves, paleographical specimens, Books of Hours and other manuscripts, London [undated, c. 1985]. The Library acquired the leaf from Maggs Bros in 1986.

Contents: Part of the Litany, including invocations for the intercession of the Virgin Mary, the Angels, Patriarchs and Prophets, Apostles and Disciples, Martyrs, Priests and Religious. Virtually identical to the list of saints in a sister manuscript transcribed by Pietro Ursuleo (Cambridge: Trinity College, MS. O.7.46, f. 139r).

Decoration: Each line begins with an initial in red or blue, flourished in penwork alternately rose or violet, now much faded. 

• Rose Faunce for Fragmentarium, 2021
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• Maggs Bros. Ltd., Catalogue 1059. Papyrus to Paper: Papyri, illuminated initials and leaves, paleographical specimens, Books of Hours and other manuscripts, London [undated, c. 1985].
  → Show description