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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Medieval Illuminated Missal

Item 10C

Medieval Illuminated Missal

1490
Manuscript
Vellum

Even though printing became popular in Europe, for many decades important books continued to be produced by hand, copied page by page and illustrated with miniature paintings. This richly illustrated manuscript is a Missal—the prayer book containing the prayers, important chants, responses, and instructions for the celebration of the Mass in the Roman Catholic Church. Medieval manuscript Missals are now rare, most likely because daily use caused most copies to wear out.

A richly illuminated medieval manuscript opened to two pages. The left page depicts the crucifixion of Jesus with vibrant blue skies and various figures at the scene.
An illuminated manuscript shows a bearded figure seated on a throne with attendants and scholars. Text on scrolls surrounds the figures. The ornate illustration features vibrant colors, a golden background, and intricate details, with additional thick, aged pages visible on the right.
An open illuminated manuscript with ornate decorations. The left page features a colorful illustration of a religious figure within a golden frame, surrounded by intricate blue and gold patterns.
Close-up of a medieval manuscript page featuring intricate, colored illuminated letters and ornate decorations. The text, written in Latin, appears in black ink on aged parchment. Blue and red designs with gold accents form large, elaborate initials, enhancing the visual appeal.

What will you discover next?

The Quran
Close-up of a detailed, ornate design featuring blue, red, and green floral motifs on a gold border. The intricate artwork has an opulent, antique appearance.

Another decorated religious book?

Go To Item 12E

Johannes Kepler Astronomie Nova
Detail from a diagram illustrating the Copernican, Ptolemaic, and Tychonic models of the solar system focusing on the Copernican model. The labels

How our view of the universe changed?

Go To Item 4D

Return to Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Plan your visit
Rose Exhibition Hall