Decorated initial on a leaf from a Choirbook, in Latin [southern Italy, c.1250s]

single leaf, 460x320mm, vellum, with a large decorated initial 'D' opening the chant for the feast of the Invention of the Cross, “Dulce lignum dulces clavos …”, 8 lines of text and music on four-line red staves, rastrum 24mm, old foliation “194”, the leaf somewhat cockled, the ink eaten through the page in a few places, but the initial in good condition

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This leaf is closely related to manuscripts grouped around the famous Conradin Bible (Baltimore, Walters MS W.152, and dispersed cuttings), produced in central or southern Italy around 1265, and usually associated with Conradin, King of Sicily (1254-68), the last Hohenstaufen ruler of the Holy Roman Empire who was executed in Naples in 1268. Another closely related leaf was recently sold at Christie's, 12 November 2008, lot 3.