Breviary

A breviary (Latin: breviarium) is a liturgical book used in Christianity for praying the canonical hours, usually recited at seven fixed prayer times.

Historically, different breviaries were used in the various parts of Christendom, such as the Aberdeen Breviary,, although eventually the Roman Breviary became the standard within the Roman Catholic Church (though it was later supplanted with the Liturgy of the Hours); in other Christian denominations such as the Lutheran Churches, different breviaries continue to be used, such as The Brotherhood Prayer Book.

During the Middle Ages, breviaries were sometimes artistically decorated. Exceptional examples include the Belleville Breviary, Mayer van den Bergh Breviary, Isabella Breviary, Stowe Breviary, and the Breviary of Marie of Savoy.