What are medieval manuscripts?
Manuscripts, which are handwritten documents in the form of codices, scrolls and leaves, preserve both textual and visual heritage throughout centuries. From Late Antiquity until the early 17th century, even after the invention of the printing press, they were one of the most important media for preserving and transferring religious and scientific knowledge, recording historical memory, and capturing literary genius.
The artworks that decorated the text and illustrated its meaning are called illuminations, a term that emerged from the Latin word “miniare” describing the red pigment that was used for painting. There are countless possibilities to build manuscript collections relating to specific subjects, regions or even historical personalities.
The types of manuscripts that we offer include:
- Books of Hours and other private devotional manuscripts
- Psalters and other liturgical manuscripts
- Antiphonaries and Graduals (choirbooks)
- Theological treatises
- Medical and scientific works
- Works of literature
- Historical works, such as chronicles
- Botanical works and herbals
Preserving stunning artwork over centuries and surviving historical crises, manuscripts retain a stable value on the art market and represent reliable and culturally significant investments.
Manuscripts on offer
This is only a selection from our current stock. Explore more below
St. Pantaleon Legendarium
An early German manuscript from the Rhineland
The Dartmouth Hours
A devotional manuscript of exquisite taste illuminated by the Mansel Master
The Croÿ-Arenberg Hours
An outstanding achievement of Flemish illumination
Book of Hours by the Master of Jean Rolin
A rediscovered Book of Hours by the Master of Jean Rolin
Collect medieval manuscripts with us
Dr. Jörn Günther is a leading specialist dealer of medieval manuscripts and miniatures since 40 years.
Our inventory comprises the finest medieval and Renaissance masterpieces available on the market today.
We support libraries, museums and book enthusiasts in building their collections. Our manuscripts set themselves apart through the quality of their artwork, their rarity, their impressive provenance, and the extensive academic research we provide for each piece.
We offer illuminated manuscripts from the 8th to the 16th century, including liturgical manuscripts, works of literature, private prayer books, scientific treatises, medicinal manuals, historical chronicles and bibles.
Our gallery is located in Basel – the city of books and art collecting.
Are you curious about collecting manuscripts? Reach out to our team today
Miniatures on offer
The Martyrdom of Saint Agatha
A striking initial D, depicting the Martyrdom of Saint Agatha, created by the Master of the Codex Rossiano (Fra Gregorio Mutii da Montepulcino).
Saints Philip and James
A vibrant miniature depicting Saints Philip and James under the colourful arches of a beautiful initial T.
Female Saint
A delicate and expressive miniature by the prolific Master of the Murano Gradual depicting a female figure against a luxurious golden backdrop.
Saints Peter and Paul
A striking miniature of St Peter and Paul, two central Saints of the Christian faith. Beautifully rendered by an artist influenced by Niccolò di Giacomo and Martino di Bartolomeo.
