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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

English Gothic Bible

Item 15B

English Gothic Bible

1210–1220
Manuscript
Vellum
William Morris

This book is probably the earliest privately owned English Bible. Medieval manuscripts like this one are well known for their magnificent, illuminated texts and illustrations. This Bible was written by several different scribes on scraped and prepared animal skin called vellum. It was owned in the 19th century by William Morris, an English Arts and Crafts designer who produced his own illustrated books at his Kelmscott Press.


What will you discover next?

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Rose Exhibition Hall