BOOK OF HOURS. Illuminated manuscript on vellum. [Paris], 1913–1914. One...

BOOK OF HOURS. Illuminated manuscript on vellum. [Paris], 1913–1914. One in-8 volume, full light calfskin, ribbed spine, covers adorned with extensive embossed and cold-chiseled relief decoration consisting of foliage scrolls framing, in the center of the front cover, a Virgin and Child, and, on the back cover, a Crucifixion; all edges gilt. Leather slipcase lined with ivory satin. 54 folios on vellum, mounted on tabs.

A superb prayer book entirely hand-calligraphed, illuminated, and bound by Marguerite Potier, in the style of medieval books of hours.

The manuscript includes 7 large hors-texte illuminations and 2 miniatures within the text, painted in color and highlighted with gold. Each page, calligraphed on 15 lines ruled in red ink, is surrounded by a broad polychrome and gilded illuminated border composed of scrollwork, foliage, and flowers, enlivened on some pages by figures, animals, and fantastical creatures. Numerous painted and gilded initials.

A handwritten pencil annotation in the colophon provides precise details about its creation: “This book was entirely drawn and painted based on the manuscripts of the National Library in Paris by Marguerite Potier in 1913–1914. The cover was also executed by the author along with the text.”