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Medieval King Arthur manuscript could fetch £2m at auction
Book containing early versions of the Merlin and Grail legends has remained in private hands for 700 years
TL;DR
- A medieval manuscript containing early versions of the King Arthur, Merlin, and holy grail legends is being offered for sale at Christie's.
- The manuscript dates from c.1290 to c.1310 and includes 126 miniature illustrations, such as a rare depiction of Merlin as a stag.
- It has remained in private hands for over 700 years and is expected to sell for £1.5m to £2m.
- This manuscript is the earliest and most illustrated of three known copies of the Lancelot-Grail cycle in private collections, and its text is unique.
- The manuscript was produced by the Master of the Liège Apocalypse and previously owned by figures like Sir Thomas Phillipps.
- Scholars hope it will enter public ownership to allow for further study, as private ownership has limited access.
- The manuscript contains a rewritten version of the Suite Vulgate du Merlin, focusing more on Arthur's battles and kingship than Gawain's adventures.