This spectacular free exhibition of medieval and Renaissance illuminated manuscripts celebrates the art of the hand-written book or manuscript. Around half the works are from Cambridge University and its colleges, which together hold one of the greatest collections of medieval manuscripts in the western world. The remainder are from distinguished public collections in Australia and New Zealand, including works from the State Library of Victoria's own collection.
Over 90 manuscripts are on display. Dating from the 8th to the 16th centuries, they include examples of deluxe book production from Byzantium, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Works on display include sacred traditional texts as well as works of music, law, history, science and literature. These exquisite manuscripts offer a wealth of information on art and learning, and provide fascinating insights into the life and times of the medieval and Renaissance periods.
The exhibition is presented in five thematic sections:
- The Bible: Illuminating the Word
- The Book and Church Services: Liturgy and Ritual
- The Personal Prayer Book: Psalters and Books of Hours
- The Book and Knowledge: Science, Law, Literature and History
- The Book and the Renaissance: The Humanist Book.
This landmark exhibition is curated by Professor Emeritus Margaret Manion AO, Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne and an international expert on illuminated manuscripts.
Program of events
A rich program of complementary talks, tours and activities will take place during the exhibition. Events will include a medieval music concert series, series of talks, a medieval faire and programs for schools.
Interactive extras
A range of online interactive extras, including an audio tour (available online and onsite), an image gallery and an education resource add to the exhibition experience.
Conference
Register now for Imagination, Books and Community in Medieval Europe, a major international conference being held at the Library from 29 to 31 May 2008, organised in partnership with the ARC Network for Early European Research and Monash University.
Catalogue
A 228-page, lavishly illustrated catalogue, with contributions by scholars from England, Europe, the USA, Australia and New Zealand has been produced. It is available at a special price through official exhibition booksellers Reader's Feast.
Accommodation
Exhibition accommodation packages are available with The Sebel Melbourne and Citigate Melbourne.
Sponsors
The Medieval Imagination is presented by the State Library of Victoria Foundation and supported by a range of sponsors.
Illustration
Historiated Initial, probably from a Choir Psalter, Italy, Lombardy, first half of 15th century, State Library of Victoria, RARESF 096 II 1 | 
