One of the oldest Christian liturgical books, the Crosby-Schøyen Codex, is set to be auctioned in London for over $2.6 million. This ancient book was written on Egyptian papyrus dating back to around 250-350 A.D. and is believed to have been produced in one of the earliest monasteries. The codex represents a transitional period when papyrus scrolls were evolving into the codex form, which is the book format we are familiar with today. It contains the earliest known texts of two books of the Bible, making it a significant historical and religious artifact.
The Crosby-Schøyen Codex contains five texts, including excerpts from the Bible such as Jonah, 2 Maccabees, and 1 Peter. It also features writings from Melito of Sardis and an unidentified sermon for Easter morning. The book was painstakingly copied by a single scribe who wrote a total of 104 pages over 40 years, resulting in 52 leaves. This level of dedication and craftsmanship adds to the value and significance of the codex, making it a rare and precious find for collectors and scholars alike.
Discovered in the 1950s, the Crosby-Schøyen Codex was originally acquired by the University of Mississippi before being purchased by Dr. Martin Schoyen, a renowned manuscript collector, in 1988. The codex has since been on display at Christie’s New York for public viewing, generating excitement and interest among those in the art and antiquities world. The upcoming auction in London on June 11 is expected to draw significant attention, with experts estimating a sale price between $2.6 million to $3.8 million for this valuable piece of Christian history.
The historical and cultural significance of the Crosby-Schøyen Codex cannot be overstated, as it represents a pivotal time in the evolution of books and religious texts. Its inclusion of early biblical writings and insights into the practices of ancient scribes make it a valuable resource for researchers and historians. The meticulous work of the scribe who spent four decades creating this codex reflects a dedication to preserving and transmitting religious teachings through the written word, highlighting the importance of the written tradition in Christianity.
The upcoming auction of the Crosby-Schøyen Codex at Christie’s in London is expected to be a major event in the art and antiquities world, drawing collectors, scholars, and enthusiasts from around the globe. The high estimated sale price reflects the rarity and significance of this ancient manuscript, with bidding likely to be competitive among those eager to own a piece of Christian history. The codex’s journey from a monastery in ancient times to the auction block in modern-day London is a testament to the enduring value and fascination of religious artifacts and the stories they tell about humanity’s spiritual beliefs and practices.
