Leaf from an antiphonal
Artist: ATTRIBUTED TO Neri da Rimini (Italian, active 1300-ca.1322)
Date: early 14th century
Dimensions:
22 13/16 x 15 3/16 in.
Medium: Ink, gold and tempera on vellum
Place of Origin: Italy
Classification: Manuscripts
Object number: 1928.183
Label Text:This medieval manuscript page combines texts, musical notation, and a decorated initial, all features of antiphonals (ann-TIFF-ah-nulls)—books containing music for daily Christian services. Like today's hymnbooks, antiphonals were used to remind singers of melodies, which were chanted. Typically, the book's scribe made the words and notes very large to allow choir members to see them from a distance.
The form of musical notation used here—its staff has only four lines and uses square notes—is typical of the 14th century. While it suggests the pitch, range, and speed of chanted melodies, it lacks the precision of more recent notation. With rich colors and artistic embellishments, this antiphonal page reflects the medieval belief that art and music enhanced the worship of God.
The form of musical notation used here—its staff has only four lines and uses square notes—is typical of the 14th century. While it suggests the pitch, range, and speed of chanted melodies, it lacks the precision of more recent notation. With rich colors and artistic embellishments, this antiphonal page reflects the medieval belief that art and music enhanced the worship of God.
Not on view
In Collection(s)