Supplication to the Pope for a general indulgence, c.1360
From William Makinthos, clerk in the Diocese of Moray
Estimate: £1,500 - £2,000
Auction: 18 June 2025 from 10:00 BST
Description
Requesting a general indulgence for William Makinthos [clerk in the Diocese of Moray] and five other unnamed applicants to the Pope [Innocent VI or Urban V], noted as granted by B[ohemond], “Cardinal” of Trier [Archbishop and Elector of Trier 1354-1362], and signed by the Bishop of Pisa [Archbishop Giovanni Scarlatti], comprising a decorated initial ‘B’ commencing the first line, with the first line illuminated in alternating red and blue, 34 lines on vellum, 46 x 34.5cm, a few small holes with loss to several letters, some very minor dampstaining
Footnote
This illuminated supplication for a general indulgence offers a valuable glimpse into the religious and social fabric of medieval Scotland. Indulgences - remissions of temporal punishment for sin - often functioned as instruments of ecclesiastical authority and diplomacy. Such petitions were typically issued during times of crisis, transition, or in connection with major acts of piety, reflecting both the devotion of the petitioner and their standing within the Church hierarchy. After being granted by the Archbishop of Trier and Bishop of Pisa, the supplication was returned to Moray.