VENETIAN ILLUMINATOR

Historiated initial "O" and ornamental corner-border, executed in red on a pale buff ground. Italy (Venice), c.

      - Within the initial is a single putto who carries a large cornucopia, and is enclosed with in a frame; the border is composed of winged cherub's heads and stylised plant ornament. 1470. An important specimen of 15th century Venetian book ornament which originally decorated the first page of a copy of the first edition of Sallust's Bellum Catalinarium, printed by Wendelin of Speier in Venice, c. 1470). Tiny hole near edge of initial (repaired). Reference: Maggs' European Bulletin, no. 10, item 29 (1979).