Why collect illuminated Manuscripts and Rare Books?

“There is no excuse for any man who has not his own private collection of books.”
– Archibald Primrose, 5th Earl of Rosebery

Illuminated Manuscripts: A Window into the Middle Ages

Many people today still consider the Medieval period in European history to be the “Dark Ages,” a time of vast cultural decline. However, we invite you to explore our website or browse through our 90 catalogues and see for yourself how the pages of these books glow with luxurious gold and silver illuminations and rich, vivid colours.

In fact, illuminated Medieval manuscripts are among the best-preserved examples of medieval art. Unlike sculptures and panel paintings that suffer from exposure to light, touch, misuse and the elements, the miniatures within these books are safely protected when the volumes are closed, allowing them to retain their immaculate condition across the centuries.

Masterpieces for Kings, Queens, and Nobility

Witness the Middle Ages come to life, as history speaks to us in the colourful brilliance of the scenes portrayed in these miniature masterpieces. The books offered by us were created for kings, queens, and nobility; in short, for the most influential and important people of their eras. Even when new, these volumes would have been considered luxurious status symbols, owing to the precious materials used in their manufacture, but they are especially treasured because they were painted and illuminated by the most important artists of the time, such as the Limbourg Brothers, the Bedford Master, the Boucicaut Master, Simon Bening or Gerard David for instance.

Stories Beyond the Art: Personalised History

Illuminated manuscripts are not just decorative objects; they tell fascinating stories about the time of their creation, the artists who illuminated them, and the historical figures for whom they were made. These books, often customised and personalised, provide an intimate glimpse into the past and often carry with them the stories of the collectors who have cherished them for over 500 years.

The Legacy of Great Collectors

Many of history's greatest art collectors were equally passionate about books and illuminated manuscripts. Notable figures include Robert Hoe, Archibald Primrose, 5th Earl of Rosebery, and Edmond de Rothschild. Perhaps most significantly, John Pierpont Morgan, whose magnificent art collections were largely donated to institutions, retained his collection of books and manuscripts. In 1906, he founded the Morgan Library in New York, preserving his passion for rare books and ensuring his collection would inspire future generations.

A Field Where Building World-Class Collections is Still Possible

The field of rare books and illuminated manuscripts remains one of the few areas in which it is still possible to build a world-class collection. While most major Old Master, Impressionist, and Modernist artworks are now part of museum collections, top-tier manuscripts and rare books continue to emerge on the market from private hands, offering collectors the opportunity to own extraordinary pieces of history.

Embark on a Journey of Discovery

Collecting illuminated manuscripts and rare books is a journey for the curious, where each turn of the page reveals a new chapter of beauty, wonder, and history. With over 45 years at the forefront of the rare book market, we at Heribert Tenschert invite you to embark on this extraordinary adventure. We look forward to guiding you through the fascinating world of rare books and manuscripts.