Resource Library

91 items found, showing page 4 of 8

This 15th-century psalter was written and illuminated at Culross Abbey, Fife. Within the initial B that begins the first Psalm, there is an illustration of King David playing the harp. The particularly vibrant colour combinations seem a common feature in Scottish illumination at this time.

Fife Psalter

Many medieval manuscripts have drawings in the margins, which were added by others after the volume was finished. The Herdmanstoun Breviary, used in Scotland and written ca. 1300, has drawings and doodles of great historical interest. They are rich in period detail and can be dated to 14th-century

Herdmanstoun Breviary

Many medieval manuscripts have drawings in the margins, which were added by others after the volume was finished. The Herdmanstoun Breviary, used in Scotland and written ca. 1300, has drawings and doodles of great historical interest. They are rich in period detail and can be dated to 14th-century S

Herdmanstoun Breviary

A 15th-century folded almanac which probably belonged to a doctor based in northern England. When it was folded up, it could be worn on the belt. The image illustrates the connections believed to exist between the signs of the zodiac and certain parts of the human body.

Medical zodiac almanac

This colourful manuscript of the rule of the Templar order was probably written in England in the 12th century. It gives the original 12th-century Latin version of the rule. The knights' code of conduct is set out in interesting detail. The order was dissolved in 1312.

Rule of the Knights Templar

Sprouston Breviary: During the Scottish Reformation (1560) more than 90 per cent of manuscripts of Roman Catholic usage were lost or destroyed. This manuscript dates from the 13th century. It offers a rare glimpse into medieval Scottish worship, including a sung liturgy in celebration of St. Kentige

Sprouston Breviary

The National Library's collection of Italian manuscripts includes some very fine examples. This tiny portable 15th-century Book of Hours is written on very fine vellum and beautifully illuminated.

Book of Hours 2

Head of Rare Books Helen Vincent with the Library's copy of the Gutenberg Bible. Credit: Neil Hanna

Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition

Head of Rare Books Helen Vincent with the Library's copy of the Gutenberg Bible. Credit: Neil Hanna

Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition

Conservation Exhibitions Specialist Ryan Gibson installing material related to Ludwig van Beethoven. Credit: Neil Hanna

Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition

Conservation Exhibitions Specialist Ryan Gibson installing material related to Ludwig van Beethoven. Credit: Neil Hanna

Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition

Conservation Exhibitions Specialist Ryan Gibson installing examples of Scottish bookbinding styles. Credit: Neil Hanna

Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition