A Connoisseur's Delight: 18 Rare 15th-Century Books of Hours Up for Auction


06/02/2021

Connoisseurs will have their choice of several manuscripts illuminated in France, including a work by the Coëtivy Master.



by Claire Papon

Book of Hours for Use in Paris in Latin and French, illuminated manuscript on parchment by the Coëtivy Master, 167 leaves, Paris, c. 1460, 13 x 19 cm /5.19 x 7.48 in. Estimate: €130,000/150,000
In the Middle Ages for laypeople a Book of Hours, which combines liturgical texts and illuminations, was essential for private prayer. This sale offers 18 that were intended for use in Paris, Rouen and Rome, the most precious one being the Urfé Psalter  (€200,000/25,000). A work intended for use in Rome Rites (c.1495-1500) by the Master of Robert Gaguin, the Master of the Parisian Processionals and Rouen’s Robert Boyvin and Jean Serpin is expected to fetch €120,000/150,000. The Coëtivy Master illuminated the other Book  of Hours, estimated €130,000/150,000 (see photo).  Read more