Teodoro Riccio’s Conundrum of 'Missa Ludovicus Dux Wirtenbergensis' Resolved?

Abstract

The long-note melody from the mass Ludovicus Dux Wirtenbergensis (from Liber primus missarum, 1579) by Teodoro Riccio is not a conventional cantus firmus of the soggetto cavato type. The meaning and provenance of this melody is therefore quite a puzzle. In addition, how to reconcile the homage-like and conciliatory character of Riccio's preface to Liber missarum, a collection dedicated to Stefan Batory, with the presence of a mass in it, which could be treated as an open affront to the king of Poland. The antiphon Cornelius centurio, vir religiosus ac timens Deum and the story of the centurion Cornelius from the Acts of the Apostles allow us to look at this composition from a different point of view. Perhaps the Mass of Ludovicus Dux Wirtenbergensis is a carrier of a theological message resulting from the conscious coupling of the melody of the antiphon with the name of Duke Ludwig of Württemberg, a message which was to strengthen the message contained in the preface and whose aim was to seek mutual understanding and respect between Christian denominations.