Skip to main content

Holiday Hours: The Folger is closing at 4:30pm on Dec 24 and Dec 31. We are closed all day on Dec 25 and Jan 1.

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.

A page from a medieval illuminated manuscript features an elaborate vertical illustration in the center. The ornate design includes figures in blue and gold, ornate geometric patterns, and gold leaf accents. It is flanked by columns of Latin text on both sides, with the text written in black ink.
An old, red leather-bound book with a gold embossed coat of arms on the front cover. The coat of arms features lions supporting a shield with intricate designs. The book's edges are worn, indicating age and use.
An ornate bookplate with a marbled pattern and gold accents. It contains multiple labels, one stating
Medieval manuscript page featuring Latin text bordered by ornate decorations. The border includes three roundels depicting intricate, hand-painted religious figures and scenes on a blue and gold backdrop. The illumination is detailed with gold leaf accents.

What will you discover next?

Medieval Illuminated Missal
Detail from an illuminated manuscript letter

A manuscript used for the Mass?

Go To Item 10C

Egyptian Book of the Dead
A detailed depiction of Anubis, the Egyptian god associated with mummification and the afterlife. The image shows a figure with a black jackal's head and a human body, painted on aged papyrus.

A document not written on paper?

Go To Item 1A

Return to the Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

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
Plan your visit
Rose Exhibition Hall