A Book of Hours

5W Dr. T. Tolley. Designed by Michael R. Carter. Singapore, 1994.

Notes

A Book of Hours was a richly decorated devotional text popular in the Middle Ages, especially between the 13th and 16th centuries, designed for laypeople to follow the daily cycle of prayers used in monastic life. Named for the “hours” of the Virgin or Divine Office, these books contained psalms, hymns, gospel excerpts, prayers to saints, and a calendar of feast days. They were often lavishly illuminated, with intricate borders, miniature paintings, and gilded lettering, serving not only as guides for private devotion but also as prized status symbols among the wealthy. Because they were personalized—sometimes including local saints or family heraldry—they give historians today a vivid glimpse into medieval spirituality, art, and daily life.

Description

Maroon cloth binding with gilt details and inlaid image to upper board. Images from Middle Ages Books of Hours. Like new condition.