TCD 109. 15th century. Vellum.
The Irish Franciscans underwent a period of expansion in the fifteenth century with the establishment of ten new houses. This expansion was linked to the austere Observant movement, which sought to follow the Franciscan rule with greater fidelity. The reform was adopted by a number of older Irish foundations as well while new houses were established especially in the south and west. The close links between the Irish Observants and their continental brethren facilitated the transmission of texts and ideas which ultimately led to the foundation of Irish Franciscan colleges on the Continent in the seventeenth century. They were particularly effective confessors and preachers, and were highly regarded as spiritual and moral authorities. This large-format service-book or antiphonary contains the texts and music used by Irish Observants for their daily celebration of the Divine Office.
