Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Book of Hours

Book of Hours

c1450s–1500
Manuscript
Bequest of Sir William Dixson, 1952
SAFE/ 4/ 1

The Book of Hours was most likely produced in Paris in the second half of the 15th century. Key Saints Days in the calendar are highlighted in red, hence the term ‘red letter days’. The opposite page is decorated with a full border of acanthus-leaf sprays and flowers.

Making a manuscript

The earliest manuscripts were produced in monasteries and religious houses. Gradually demand grew, particularly with the growth of secular learning and university towns throughout Europe. To meet demand bound manuscripts were also produced in secular ‘printing’ houses. The most sumptuous and detailed illuminated manuscripts were commissioned and designed to the specific desires of the patron.