Ave Maria, gemma virginum

Jean Mouton's Ave Maria, gemma virginum is a sacred motet for SSAATTBB voices. Composed in Latin, it draws on a Marian antiphon, a traditional form of prayer addressed to the Virgin Mary. The text, beginning with a salutation to Mary as the 'gem of virgins' and 'lady of the world', progresses to a plea for her intercession, particularly at the hour of death. Mouton's setting reflects the devotional intensity of the Renaissance, with the rich texture of double choir (SSAA and TTBB) offering a sonorous and imitative setting of this plea for divine assistance through Mary's maternal care.