Artwork
Benedictine Antiphonary
Benedictine Antiphonary is an unspecified painting by Belbello da Pavia. It is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Benedictine Antiphonary is a painted book attributed to Belbello da Pavia, created in 1467. It is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The antiphonary is an open book displaying handwritten text in black ink, with certain words highlighted in red. The text is likely related to musical notation, as antiphonaries were used to record chants and hymns.
Technique & Style
The pages feature intricate decorations between the lines of text, including swirling patterns and letterforms filled with tiny faces. The decorations showcase bold colors, such as greens, blues, and reds, which contrast with the faded parchment.
Context
Antiphonaries like this one were used in liturgical settings, containing the musical notation and text for chants and hymns. The style of the handwriting and decorations reflects the artistic and musical practices of the Benedictine order during the 15th century.
Artist & collection
Leaf 7 from an antiphonal fragment
Leaf 4 from an antiphonal fragment
Leaf 4 from an antiphonal fragment (verso)
Leaf 3 from an antiphonal fragment (verso)
Leaf 1 from an antiphonal fragment (verso)
Antiphonary
Leaf 3 from an antiphonal fragment
Leaf 8 from an antiphonal fragment (verso)
Leaf 2 from an antiphonal fragment
Leaf 8 from an antiphonal fragment
Leaf 6 from an antiphonal fragment (verso)
Leaf 6 from an antiphonal fragment