
Breviary of Ercole d"Este, ca. 1502-1504, Modena, Biblioteca Estense Universitaria, Lat.424=V.G.11
Psalter. Most breviaries include a full Psalter or collection of the Psalms in order from 1 to 150. These may be divided according to the days of the week and enhanced with additional readings, prayers, and chants, such as in the Breviary of Ercole d'Este, the half-brother of Leonello d'Este. The first leaf shown below includes the end of Psalm 39, followed by two antiphons, or sung prayers. The text of the Psalter is often embellished by a small illuminated initials, one for every verse. This added decoration emphasizes the sanctity of the text, which was attributed to King David, considered to be a prefiguration of Christ.