The Nuremberg Mahzor (Prayer book, according to Eastern Ashkenazi rite)

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 of piyyutim (liturgical poems) 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.

Credit: Extended loan from the collection of Dr. David and Jemima Jeselsohn, Zurich