The Nuremberg Mahzor, according to the Eastern Ashkenazi rite, South Germany, 1331. Scribes: Mattany

The Nuremberg Mahzor, according to the Eastern Ashkenazi rite, South Germany, 1331. Scribes: Mattanyah, Jacob.

Handwritten on parchment; brown and red ink, tempera, gold and silver leaf; square and semi-cursive Ashkenazic script

This illuminated prayer book for the entire year, in one massive volume, may have been used by the cantor in the synagogue. It includes the largest existing compilation ofpiyyutim with commentaries, many of these texts previously unknown. Commissioned by Joshua ben Isaac, the manuscript is a fine example of collaboration between different scribes and is decorated with 22 painted initial-word panels highlighted in gold and silver leaf, emphasizing the opening of some of the main prayers.