Greek papyros fragment
Egypt, 163 BC
Contains three non-asserted texts. They are orders for goods and confirmation of deliveries.
Reed with a split tip (Kalamos) was used for writing. The scripture was carried out with a solution of carbon black (soot) or with cinnabar (red), later on with sepia- and metal inks.
Sumerian clay cone
2100 BC.
Cuneiform script document by the count of Lagasch of Southern Mesopotamia concerning a temple he erected.
The New Sumerian inscription translates as follows:
“For Ningizzida/his God/ has Gudea/ count/ of Lagasch (today Tellah)/the servant of the goddess Gatumdug/his temple in Girsu/erected. “
Oriental book covers
Several oriental influences found their way to European book covers. Such were the technique of gold plating, dented middle plates, colourful lacquer paintings on covers, the almond-shaped middle piece, on occasion with corresponding corner pieces. Especially the flap on flexible covers is typical; which is designed to repeat the front cover’s ornamentation. Thus the cover’s design is not changed when the flap is closed.
Re-printed Shui-hu-chuan, illustrated with depictions of the dutiful
Chinese woodblock print. 17th century.
Three chapters taken from a popular novel, which was first published in 1614 in Beijing.
Mulana Fudhuli: Poem in praise of wine
Persian manuscript on rose paper with
3 full-page paintings.
Bagdad 1630.
Life, Miracle and Portrait of Saint Walatta Petros
Ethiopian illuminated manuscript on parchment.
In the year 165 of the faith and fifth year of King Yohannes I (1672).
