Hebrew Liturgical Illuminated Vellum Leaf from a Machzor for Yom Kippur: “Meisarim Hotze Kaor”

(LITURGY)

Italy

ca. 15th century

Large Initial letters in center in gold and black highlighted with floral penwork and surrounded by multicolored flowers emanating from a green vine. Other smaller initial letters in red. One leaf with text on recto and verso

The hymn at right commencing with the words “shofet kol ha-arettz” is recited during the morning service of Yom Kippur. The hymn at left starting with the words “Sarei kodesh” is substituted when Yom Kippur occurs on the Sabbath. Provenance: The Michael Zagayski Collection: Sotheby’s Tel Aviv, 11th October, 2001, Lot 20