The Macclesfield Alphabet Book
The Macclesfield Alphabet Book is an exquisitely beautiful c.15th-century ‘pattern book’. It is thought that scribes in medieval Britain used such manuscripts to produce luxury books. Until recently, its existence was unknown, with the British Library holding the only other known English late medieval pattern book.
Previously part of the collection of the earls of Macclesfield, this manuscript presented a rare acquisition opportunity for the Library. Without sufficient funding, this treasure could have been sold to foreign buyers or even been divided into individual pages, significantly diminishing its research value.
Thanks to supporters including the National Heritage Memorial Fund, The Art Fund, and many individuals, the Macclesfield Alphabet Book is now on display in the Sir John Ritblat Treasures Gallery for all to enjoy.
The Macclesfield Alphabet Book is the most complete set of designs for manuscript decoration known to have survived from late-medieval Britain. The 'abcs' are wonderfully illustrated including letters formed using animals and people and I hope that those who go to see it on display at the British Library will be captivated by its inventiveness, and that researchers will begin an interesting debate on its origin, models, and function.
Kathleen Doyle, Curator of Illuminated Manuscripts