The Voynich Question - artist hand bound book of ancient manuscript, book gift, Christmas gift

The Voynich Question - an artist hand bound book will make a great art gift or a literary gift for the curious. The Voynich Question is a handmade book that shows various reproductions chosen from an amazing document that dates back to the 15th century. The text has never been recognised as a language, though it bears similarities to various semantic networks. It has been studied tirelessly since it came to light in 1912 by various experts , and has not yet given up its secrets. The manuscript has passed through a succession of thinkers since Rudolf II spent 600 ducats on it in the 16th century. Up until recently it has been considered by some to be an elaborate hoax, perhaps to convince people of the owners credibility, a sort of 'I'm cleverer than you' bragging book- a demonstration of the owners powers of alchemy. Nevertheless it continues to test academics and hobbyists as to the meaning behind the volume. We want to know - it is a curiosity that defies explanation so far.

The manuscript‚s ownership history can be traced back to the seventeenth century, but carbon dating of its vellum and stylistic analysis of its illustrations suggest that it was written around the second half of the fifteenth century (Dr. Greg Hodgins, University of Arizona, personal communication). Presently, the book belongs to the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library of Yale University. Please note this is not a complete facsimile of the original, but an artistic response to the original manuscript, with various of the illustrations chosen for their beauty and interest.

There are eight folded pages each with four illustrations printed onto a lovely textured watercolour paper chosen for its excellence in print quality and longevity. I sew the pages using a traditional coptic stitch and then finish with bespoke covers ( All book covers vary - the photos show sold versions) The finished book measures approx 11 x 14 cm. I include a printed certificate of authenticity which is signed and dated.

I make to order and can include a dedication on the inside cover or fly leaf if requested.
Is this item a gift? You can grab a one of a kind card here - I print your greeting inside! https://etsy.me/2PDdTac or use the shop menu to navigate to cards showing animals or flowers


Each book I make is researched and produced by myself, and reflects my interests in art, history and literature. Nature is also a theme which I return to. Each book is individual and can be much longer in it's gestation than in its manufacture!! Some take months to become clear to me!! Please note that covers vary as each book is a unique hand crafted creation.


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