This collection consists of 25 manuscript pages from 1300 to 1610. Also included in the collection are facsimile pages, which are clearly labeled on the folders and container list. The folders are arranged chronologically, with some folders containing additional information about the specific pages. Among the highlights of the collection are four pages from Books of Hours spanning 1425 to 1525. Books of Hours are either a book or primer for use in private devotions. The central text, the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin, is modeled on the Divine Office and represents a shorter version of the devotions performed at the eight canonical hours. Books of Hours are nearly always illuminated, and the quality and quantity of the illuminations was in direct proportion to the patron's budget. Popular subjects for the illuminations include scenes from the life of the Virgin, Christ, and King David; depictions of the saints; and themes relating to death and judgment. Occasionally the patron was portrayed, as well as decorative letters and figures. The collection also includes woodblock prints, early printed pages and a map engraving. For more detailed information of some of the pages see the Manuscript Pages Case File for the text used in a Rare Books exhibit, 2009.
