Latin Bible written in France in the second half of the 13th century.

Item

Identifier: Adv.MS.18.8.10

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The order of contents is that usually found in French bibles of the period, with the common set of 64 prologues (see ‘Medieval Manuscripts in British Libraries’, ii, pages 210-212). The biblical books are followed (folio 511) by the interpretations of Hebrew names beginning `Aaz apprehendens` (‘Repertorium Biblicum medii aevi’, number 7709). A leaf containing Psalms 23-29 is missing after folio 238.

There are illuminated initials throughout: preceding the first prologue and at the beginning of each book is a historiated initial on one of the usual subjects (‘Manuscript painting in Paris during the reign of St Louis’, pages 178-183); the Genesis initial (folio 4 verso) includes two kneeling lay figures below the Crucifixion. Initials to the other prologues contain foliage or beasts; there are also red and blue initials with penwork extending into the margins. There are contemporary corrections and some marginal notes in a later cursive hand.

Dates

Creation: 2nd half of 13th century.

Extent

1 Volumes (552 folios + ii (paper).)

Language of Materials

Latin

Additional Description

Arrangement

Collation: 1²⁶ (+1 in second half of gathering), 2-3²⁸, 4²⁴ (+1 in first half of gathering), 5-9²⁴, 10³² (-11), 11-12²⁴, 13²², 14-16²⁴, 17²⁴ (-11), 18-19²⁴, 20²⁶, 21¹⁴, 22²⁴ (-10, 15; +1 in second half of gathering), 23²⁰ (-20). Catchwords parallel to the text. Remains of signatures a-n in red on folio 144 and gatherings 7-9. 2 columns of 48 lines. Ruled in ink.

Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements

Vellum. French 15th-century blind-stamped binding. Clasps missing.

Bibliography

Ker, N R. ‘Medieval Manuscripts in British Libraries’, ii (Oxford, 1977).

Stegmüller, F. ‘Repertorium Biblicum medii aevi’ (Madrid, 1950).

Branner, Robert. ‘Manuscript painting in Paris during the reign of St Louis’ (London, 1977).