Book of Hours of Le Peley

Commissioned by Guyot Le Peley, a prominent Troyes citizen, Jean Colombe’s late Gothic marvel reemerged dramatically in a Christie’s auction in London in 2005, now safeguarded in the Bibliothèque municipale of Troyes, heralded as a wonder in the history of illumination.

Each of the manuscript’s three hundred pages exudes opulence through intricate decorations. The pages, delineating customary elements of a book of hours, such as Gospel excerpts, the Office of the Virgin Mary, Psalms, and religious texts, are adorned with full- and double-page miniatures. These visual narratives, including the striking Annunciation, are encased in architectural frames akin to panel paintings. The manuscript boasts hundreds of smaller pictorial works, framing the devout texts in a splendidly illustrative manner. Notably, bas-de-page miniatures and historiated initials further enrich the manuscript’s opulent ambiance.

Commissioned by Guyot Le Peley, as indicated by the escutcheon on the manuscript’s opening page, this artistic marvel was expertly crafted by Jean Colombe, revered as the most significant French illuminator of the late 15th century. The Book of Hours of Le Peley, is considered a prime work of Jean de Colombe, showcasing his artistic prowess.

The manuscript bears traces of its journey through various owners, including Gaetano Poggiali from Livorno in the 18th century and Henry Bordes, a Bordeaux ship-owner in the 19th century. Lost to history for a significant period, the manuscript made a sensational reappearance at the Christie’s auction in 2005, unveiling itself to the world of illumination and historical manuscripts.

The manuscript’s painted borders reveal a cycle of Old Testament scenes spanning hundreds of pages, along with representations of the labors of the months and zodiac signs in the calendar page borders. Jean Colombe, active in Bourges from 1463 to 1498, was renowned for his intricate craftsmanship and artistic vision. His earlier work included completing the Très Riches Heures of the Duke of Berry.

The manuscript’s texts, including seasonal variants for the Office of the Virgin, exhibit exemplary French Batârde script. The patron, Guy II Le Peley, involved in the salt trade in Troyes, showcased his affluence by commissioning this lavish manuscript adorned with his coat of arms.

The facsimile edition of the Book of Hours of Le Peley is complemented by a bookcase for its conservation and a complementary study book made by subject matter experts.

This facsimile is a unique edition of 495 books numbered and authenticated by notarial deed.