Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Cleveland
Single Leaf Excised from an Antiphonary: Inital A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty
![Single Leaf Excised from an Antiphonary: Inital A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty](/p/731/single-leaf-excised-antiphonary-19641869.jpg.webp "Single Leaf Excised from an Antiphonary: Inital A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty")
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Single Leaf Excised from an Antiphonary: Inital A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty
Single Leaf Excised from an Antiphonary: Inital A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty, c. 1330-1350. This massive historiated initial A, among the largest painted by Renaissance illuminators, introduces the matins response for the first Sunday in Advent. For centuries this particular Sunday was known as Aspiciens a longe Sunday, since this is the very first chant of the Christian liturgical year to be sung with a special choir, or Schola Cantorum, on that day. The text as well as the image follow the prophecy of Isaiah who foresaw the birth of Christ: Aspiciens a longe, ecce, video potentiam (Long had I been watching. Behold, now do I see God coming in power as in a cloud of light). Within the letter A, Christ is enthroned in majesty surrounded by angels and saints meant to represent the redeemer who is yet to come. The two figures who occupy the bottom curves of the A are Old Testament prophets; on the left is Isaiah who holds a scroll revealing his prophecy: " Behold, a Virgin can conceive."
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19641869
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> Italy
> Tuscany
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Umbria
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Cleveland
> Historic
> Renaissance art
> Italian Renaissance art
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a single leaf excised from an antiphonary, featuring the magnificent initial A[spiciens a longe] with Christ in Majesty. Created between 1330 and 1350, this Renaissance masterpiece is one of the largest painted historiated initials ever produced by illuminators. The purpose of this remarkable artwork was to introduce the matins response for the first Sunday in Advent. Known as Aspiciens a longe Sunday, it marked the beginning of the Christian liturgical year and was traditionally sung by a special choir called Schola Cantorum. The text and image on this leaf beautifully align with Isaiah's prophecy about the birth of Christ: "Long had I been watching. Behold, now do I see God coming in power as in a cloud of light". Within the letter A itself, we are presented with an awe-inspiring depiction of Christ enthroned in majesty, surrounded by angels and saints symbolizing his forthcoming role as redeemer. Notably, two Old Testament prophets occupy the curves at the bottom of the A; Isaiah can be seen on the left holding a scroll that reveals his prophecy: "Behold, a Virgin can conceive". This extraordinary piece not only exemplifies exceptional artistic skill but also serves as a visual representation of profound religious significance. It stands as testament to both human creativity and devotion throughout centuries past.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
