Manière D'Entendre La Messe En L'Honneur De La Très Sainte Vierge -

(France), 1883. (38)ff. Miniature-sized illuminated manuscript on vellum of a Mass for the Virgin Mary. The volume begins with a full-page miniature of the Virgin and her husband Joseph surrounding and blessing a church official, in the company of an awed congregation. The manuscript itself is replete with elaborate borders, unique on each page, featuring flowers, vines, dragons, and heraldic devices. The text is written in black with two-line initials, titles in red, rubrication, and ruling. All elements are illuminated in gilt, and the work boasts a stunning array of colors, from vibrant blues and scarlets to naturalistic greens and oranges. The decorations also exhibit an interesting intersection of styles, with traditional medieval-style page decorations interspersed with more contemporary designs. A remarkable work with a delicate color palette and deft calligraphy. Bound in full contemporary brown morocco, gilt-lace doublures inset with embroidered silk, and tri-color ribbon. Some wear along hinges, with a few small holes at joints. Housed in purple percaline case, lined in burgundy silk, with gilded mark "E. & A. Lesort | Editeurs Relieurs." Fine. A.e.g. Bookseller tag to front free endpaper. Previous owner's annotation to 3f. (2 7/8 by 2 1/2; 75x64mm).