Psalter with Passion readings – Fragment
Parchment · 1 leaf · 1440 – 1483 CE · Italy, perhaps Naples · 172 x 127 mmF-ot3d
Dunedin, Dunedin Public Libraries Heritage Collection, RMM Fragment 32a
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Text Language
Script Type
Liturgica
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Summary
One of four leaves in the Dunedin Library collection from a Psalter written by Pietro Ursuleo of Capua (d. 1483), a priest and bishop of Satriano in Calabria from 1474 to 1483. This leaf was purchased from Folio Fine Art in October 1964. The firm's stock numbering is inscribed in pencil in the lower margin (verso) 'MS. 1439'.
It is probably from the Psalter once part of the library of John Boykett Jarman (1782-1864), auctioned by Sotheby, Wilkinson & Hodge 13-14 June 1864 (lot 161). A twin manuscript also written by Pietro Ursuleo is preserved (Cambridge: Trinity College, MS. O.7.46).
Contents: The leaf contains part of the Passion sequence according to Matthew, concerning the plot to kill Jesus, the text beginning at the arrival of Judas and the armed mob (26: 47-61).
Script: Fine and well-formed humanistic minuscule, slightly clubbed, with generous word separation. Consistent punctuation and abbreviations confined to commonly occurring words.