14th Century Monk Coral Pages

14th-Century Monk Choral Pages (Spanish Origin)

Description:
You own three framed pages from a 14th-century Spanish Gregorian chant manuscript, likely used in a monastic or ecclesiastical setting for daily liturgical purposes. These pages are written on vellum (calf or cowhide parchment) in Spanish Round Gothic script, a style typical of Iberian manuscripts of the period. The musical notation features square neumes on four-line red staves, consistent with medieval plainsong notation used in antiphonals or graduals

Features:

• Medium: Cowhide parchment (vellum)
• Script: Spanish Round Gothic
• Notation: Square neumes (chant notation)
• Illumination: Minimal (painted red/black initials, no gold leaf)
• Condition: Good with minor corner deterioration from attic storage
• Framed Size: 27" x 38" each
• Provenance: Believed to be of Spanish origin; used for daily chants, not a deluxe illuminated manuscript

Historical Context & Authentication:

This type of manuscript would have been part of a large-format choral book meant to be read by several monks standing around a lectern. The minimal illumination and size suggest utilitarian use rather than ceremonial. The paleography, musical notation, and layout are consistent with known examples from 14th-century Iberian monastic communities.

Authentication based solely on photos supports the date and geographic origin as plausible. However, to fully authenticate and verify valuation (especially for sale or donation), a certified manuscript appraiser or Latin paleographer should inspect it in person—preferably one affiliated with a rare books auction house, university archive, or museum.

Estimated Value (2025 Market):

• Retail/Private Sale Value: $2,500 – $4,000 USD (for the full set of 3 framed leaves)
• Auction Estimate: $1,800 – $3,000 USD
• Insurance Appraisal: $4,500 USD replacement value (includes historical significance and preservation framing)

Note: Value may be higher if provenance (e.g., monastery or manuscript title) can be documented.

Recommendations:

• Preservation: Maintain in archival-quality frames away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Professional Appraisal (if selling/donating): Contact:
  • Christie’s or Sotheby’s Rare Books Departments
  • Les Enluminures (manuscript dealers)
  • Rare Book School (University of Virginia) referrals