Medieval Manuscript Fragment on Parchment — St. Ambrose — c. 13th/14th Century For Sale

Offered here is an original medieval Latin manuscript fragment on parchment, preserving portions of the ancient Christian hymn Deus creator omnium (“God, Creator of All Things”), traditionally attributed to St. Ambrose of Milan (c. 340–397).The fragment most likely dates to approximately the 14th century (with a possible broader range of late 13th–15th century) and is handwritten in a Gothic bookhand. Dark ink is accompanied by red rubrication, including a striking large red-and-black decorated initial “D” marking the beginning of Deus creator omnium.The surviving Latin corresponds with the established hymn text, including portions beginning Deus creator omnium, polique rector… and subsequent verses such as Artus solutos ut quies, Grates peracto iam die, and Te cordis ima concinant. The hymn belongs to the ancient Latin Christian hymn tradition associated with St. Ambrose and is documented in medieval liturgical manuscripts in connection with Vespers and the Divine Office.The fragment likely originated in a medieval liturgical manuscript containing Office hymns, potentially a hymnary, psalter-hymnal, breviary, or related service book.The parchment was later cut from its original manuscript. Its pronounced vertical fold, associated piercing/sewing holes, and wear are consistent with later reuse as bookbinding material—a fascinating example of how medieval manuscripts were sometimes recycled after their original liturgical use ended.This is an attractive and highly displayable medieval fragment featuring a recognizable early Christian hymn, Gothic handwriting, rubrication, and a large decorated initial.Please note: Dating and identification are based upon textual, paleographic, and physical characteristics. Exact date, geographic origin, and original parent manuscript cannot be established with certainty from the surviving fragment alone. Please review all photographs carefully for dimensions and condition; photographs form an important part of the description.Learn more about pieces like this: Visit The Divine Library on YouTube, where I create videos exploring medieval manuscripts, rare books, biblical artifacts, and the history behind these remarkable objects.