Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Preferred Citation

MSS 16558, Livre des merveilles du monde facsimile, Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

This collection was purchased from The University of Virginia Bookstore by the Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia on August 23, 2021.

Content Description

This collection consists of a print on demand facsimile of Livre des merveilles du monde (BNF FR2810)based on the Marco Polo - The Book of Wonders. This one-of-a-kind reproduction is the only numbered large size format Book of Wonders in genuine calf skin leather." (with certificate of authenticity).It is an illuminated manuscript made in France between 1410 to 1412 containing several texts regarding commercial, religious, and diplomatic contact between Europe and Asia. The authors of these texts include Marco Polo, Odoric of Pordenone, Wilhelm von Boldensele, Uzbeg, Benedict XII, John Mandeville, Hayton of Corycus, Riccoldo da Monte di Croce, and others. It contains 297 folios, and 265 miniatures produced by several Parisian workshops, thought to be those of Boucicaut Master, the Bedford Master and the Mazarine Master.

The manuscript contains 297 folios and 265 miniatures. The original was owned by prominent French figures and families including John, the fearless, and John, Duke of Berry, the Armagnac family, Charles de Valois (Duke of Angouleme) and possibly King Francis I of France, and the Librairie Royale de Fontainebleau. The original currently resides at the Biblotheque Nationale de France.

Subjects and Indexing Terms

• Asia
• Illuminated manuscripts
• Illumination of books and manuscripts, Medieval -- France
• Manuscripts, Medieval -- Facsimiles
• University of Virginia Bookstore
• Voyages and travels -- Early works to 1800