John Blanke’s wage slip Catalogue ref: E 36/214 f.109.
Transcript
Item to John blanke the blacke Trumpet for his moneth wages of Novembre last passed at viij d the day –
Item to Sir Rice ap Thomas’ servant that brought metheglee to the king for his reward xx s [20 shillings] and for the cariage of the same xx s [20 shillings]
Summa parles lx s. [60 shillings]
S[u]m totals of this wek aforesaid Lix li iiijs vijd[£59, 4 shillings, 7 pence]
Task
- What can you see?
- Do you think this is a modern document? Why/ why not?
- Can you make out any of the words?
- Who is John Blanke and what is his job?
- How much is he paid?
- Why do you think he has been described as ‘John Blanke the blacke’?
Follow-on questions:
- John Blanke played at the royal court; what does this tell us about his ability as a musician?
- Why do you think reference has been made to the colour of Blanke’s skin?