The origins of liturgical music traditionally date back to St. Gregory the Great (d. 604), who was inspired by the Holy Dove to record the principles of 'Gregorian' chant. The Gradual contained the musical parts of the Missal and was sung from the steps (gradus) of the altar. The Antiphoner contained the musical sections of the Breviary. These terms have become interchangeable in modern times. Because of their size and complexity, these manuscripts were still being handmade in the traditional way for centuries after the introduction of printing. They were boldly hand-written and illuminated on large sheets of sturdy vellum so that the entire choir could read from one book.

From a 13th century Catholic Graduale, this large sheet of vellum has beautifully written manuscript, four-line music on both sides. Written in black and red ink with red and blue initials decorated in intricate filigree penwork. This leaf was obviously well used over its more than 700 year lifetime, with a later manuscript black ink notation in the top margin of the recto.

References:

Condition: B

There are some holes in the bottom stave, with a partial old repair. These holes are the result of oxidation in the ink and are not distracting.