ILLUMINATED MANUSCRIPT ILLUSTRATING THE CANON OF THE MASS. N - Lot 65

ILLUMINATED MANUSCRIPT ILLUSTRATING THE CANON OF THE MASS. Northern France, XVII-XVIIth century; oblong folio (550 x 370 mm) on vellum skin, antique brown natural wood frame decorated with ornate festoons. Large composite painting featuring a representation of the Last Supper in the upper central section. Eleven figures are seated with Christ in the center. All of them, with very marked expressions, seem to be discussing vehemently. The four apostles on the right are somewhat theatrical, with the last one addressing a figure whose sleeve is all that can be seen. On the table are ceramics decorated with glasses filled with red wine and a lobster in a large dish. A large frame with a matt gold background, decorated with scrolls interspersed with poppies, roses and fleur-de-lys. The Latin text, calligraphed in black and red inks, is arranged in three columns. Twelve large miniature initials introduce the paragraphs. Four of these feature coats of arms, including those of the Dominican Order, one of which reads: Or, a cross gules between 4 fleurs-de-lys azure. The central text begins with a title: "Accipiendo in manibus hostiam dicit...". (Receiving the host in his hands...). The two later side columns of text have been added. A beautiful and rare piece of meticulous workmanship, perfectly preserved.