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#GutenbergBible #RareFind #HistoricalTreasure #PrintingHistory #BibleLeaf #AntiqueDiscovery #CotswoldsAuction #ChorleysAuctioneers #BookCollector #GutenbergRevolution #1455Manuscript #BromsgroveFind #RareManuscript #BiblicalArt #PrintingHeritage
A rare leaf from the Gutenberg Bible, a monumental work regarded as the first substantial book printed with movable type in the Western world, has been discovered in an attic in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. Dating back to circa 1455, this 570-year-old manuscript is expected to fetch between £20,000 and £30,000 when it goes under the hammer at Chorley’s Auctioneers in the Cotswolds on March 25, 2024. The leaf was found among the possessions of a Bromsgrove resident’s late grandfather, stored in a box that had remained unopened for over 50 years.
Leaf pages from the Gutenberg Bible are exceptionally rare and highly prized, both for their aesthetic beauty and their immense historical significance. They are typically found in prestigious museums rather than private collections, making this discovery particularly remarkable. The leaf in question is from the 42-line Bible, a version of the Gutenberg Bible, and features a section of the Book of Numbers, specifically verses 8:13 to 10:23. This passage includes key biblical events such as the consecration of the Levites, the observance of the Passover, and the presence of the Cloud above the Tabernacle. The text is printed in Gothic type, adorned with intricate Lombard initials in red and blue, exemplifying the masterful craftsmanship and design of early European printing.
The Gutenberg Bible, produced by Johannes Gutenberg and his partner Johann Fust in Mainz, Germany, in the mid-15th century, is widely regarded as a cornerstone of the “Gutenberg Revolution.” This technological and cultural shift marked the beginning of the mass production of printed books, which played a pivotal role in the dissemination of knowledge and the advancement of literacy across Europe. Only 49 copies or substantial portions of the Gutenberg Bible survive today, making it one of the most valuable and revered books in existence.
Werner Freundel, director of Chorley’s Auctioneers, emphasized the historical significance of the Gutenberg Bible, stating, “The Gutenberg Bible’s immense historical value stems from its pioneering role in the development of European typography and the spread of knowledge. With only a handful of Gutenberg Bibles surviving in the world, we were amazed to discover a leaf from an original Bible in a Bromsgrove attic. This beautiful leaf represents an increasingly rare opportunity for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts to own a tangible piece of history.”
The discovery of this leaf underscores the enduring allure and importance of the Gutenberg Bible, not only as a religious text but also as a symbol of the transformative power of printing technology. Its creation marked a turning point in human history, enabling the widespread distribution of ideas and information and laying the foundation for the modern publishing industry. The intricate design and craftsmanship of the leaf, with its Gothic type and Lombard initials, reflect the meticulous attention to detail that characterized early printing efforts.
The Gutenberg Bible’s rarity and historical significance have made it a highly sought-after item among collectors and institutions. Each surviving leaf or fragment is a testament to the ingenuity and vision of Johannes Gutenberg, whose invention of movable type revolutionized the way knowledge was shared and preserved. The Bromsgrove leaf, with its well-preserved condition and rich historical context, offers a unique opportunity for individuals and organizations to connect with this pivotal moment in history.
As the auction date approaches, anticipation is building among collectors and historians eager to acquire this extraordinary piece of printing history. The sale of the Gutenberg Bible leaf is not just a transaction but a celebration of the enduring legacy of Johannes Gutenberg and the profound impact of his invention on the world. Whether it finds a home in a private collection or a public institution, this leaf will continue to inspire and educate future generations about the origins of the printed word and the power of innovation.
In summary, the discovery of a Gutenberg Bible leaf in a Bromsgrove attic is a remarkable event that highlights the enduring significance of Johannes Gutenberg’s pioneering work. This 570-year-old manuscript, featuring a section of the Book of Numbers, is a rare and valuable artifact that embodies the dawn of the printing revolution. Its upcoming auction at Chorley’s Auctioneers offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history, connecting the present with the transformative moment when the printed word began to shape the course of human civilization.
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