ModE M.1.13, Modena, Biblioteca Estense e Universitaria, MS α M. 1.13 (Lat. 457; olim V.H.10)

This distinguished Liber Missarum is one of the products that kept the industry of manuscript-making a vibrant pursuit in quattrocento Ferrara. This source, along with several other large-scale books of music for Vespers of Lent and Matins of Holy Week (for example) and further Masses, was completed under the patronage of Ercole I d’ Este.

In his seminal study of 15th-century music in Ferrara, Lockwood establishes a chain of events for the production of a “project” manuscript.[1] At least six routine links were involved: 1) calculating the number of folios required and their measurements; 2) placing the order with a cartolare; 3) this paper/parchment merchant would then prepare the material and cut to size; 4) copying would proceed with the expectation of decoration being added later; 5) back to the cartolare for binding and covers possibly with tooled decoration, and if necessary on to a metal shop for corners and clasps; 6) presentation to the client.

Looking at ModE M.1.13 as a whole, the second part of phase 4 is of particular interest for the manuscript clearly exhibits an unmistakeable program of decoration intent.

[1] Lewis Lockwood, Music in Renaissance Ferrara 1400-1505, The Creation of a Musical Center in the Fifteenth Century, Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1984, p. 214.