Penitential prayer book by Albrecht Glockendon for Johann II von Pfalz-Simmern – Limited Edition Facsimile, Fine Binding. Published 2010 by Faksimile Verlag – Lucerne, in a limited edition of 980 (this copy is number 640). Facsimile reproduction of the entire original document that is as accurate as possible (size, format, color). 52 pages / 13.8 × 9.9 cm. As with many medieval manuscripts, the original binding has not been preserved. Probably in the 18th century, the work was bound in dark brown leather, which was imitated for the facsimile edition. Gold embossing was applied to the front and back. The book block has a gold edge on three sides. A hand-stitched headband adorns the head and foot section of the book. Commentary volume by Ulrich Merkl (Language: German). Together presented in a beautiful leather case made of brown cowhide, with a window. The penitential prayer book by Albrecht Glockendon for Johann II von Pfalz-Simmern is a special gem from the genre of hourly or devotional book. It arose in the transitional period between the Middle Ages and modern times, and is one of the last highlights of book illumination before the triumph of printing. The text focuses primarily on the biblical story of David and Bathsheba, chronicling the events from the fall of the Israelite king to his redemption through repentance. It is adorned with 9 large miniatures, some taking up a whole page, and 19 ornate initials. The Old Testament story is brought into the Renaissance by depicting the figures in 16th-century fashion and architectural settings. The illuminator Albrecht Glockendon was one of two famous sons of the progenitor of the Glockendon dynasty, Georg Glockendon the Elder. Albrecht was an experienced and talented illuminator who very consciously created his own unmistakable style, presumably to set himself apart from his brother Nikolaus. In a courageous act, he dispensed with the realistic effects that were customary at the time, deliberately opting for the opposite, namely reduction and abstraction, supported by extraordinary colour effects. Nevertheless, he commissioned one of the last truly masterful illuminated manuscripts as a gift for his youngest son, which was created around 1532/33.
