Christ in Conversation with Two Prophets. Initial
A from a Gradual, illuminated by the Master of
the Gradual III for the Imola Cathedra, Emilia
c. 1265-1270.
c. 181 x 150 mm. Tempera and ink on vellum.
Provenance: Made for the Cathedral of Imola;
Geneva, William Kundig; Austria, Dr. Friedrich
Georg Zeileis collection; NY, Alana collection.
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This stunning medieval miniature is an exceptional example of Duecento art from Emilia-Romagna, dated circa 1265-1270. Originating from a Gradual, this miniature was illuminated by the Master of the Gradual III of Imola Cathedral and vividly portrays a sacred scene from the Introitus of the first Sunday in Advent. This miniature is one of the few surviving pieces from the first series of choir books created for Imola Cathedral.
In this magnificent miniature, Christ, identifiable by his cross-shaped halo, sits enthroned above the crossbar of the initial A. With an open book in his left hand and his right hand raised in blessing, he exudes a serene authority. Below, two bearded prophets, distinguished by their halos, gaze upward towards the Saviour. One prophet holds an empty scroll, symbolising the anticipation of the Messiah. The composition is elegantly balanced by two angels in the upper spandrels, guarding the divine interaction.
The artistry of this piece is unmistakable. The Master of the Gradual III, who also created the pictorial initials for the Gradual of Imola Cathedral, imbibes the scene with grace and sophistication. The large, curved letter A stretches across a rich blue background framed in orange, adorned with delicate white linear decorations and filigree ornaments that evoke a star-studded night sky. The restrained palette of blue, blue-grey, and ochre further enhances the composition's elegance.
The Master of the Gradual III’s style is distinctive. His figures, with close-set eyes, gently undulating hairstyles, and long, delicate fingers, are immediately recognisable. The intricate interweaving of figurative and decorative elements showcases his exceptional skill, creating an almost embroidered appearance. This subtle awareness of complex design underscores the high-end manuscript illustration flourishing in Emilia-Romagna during this period.
