Detail from BL Arundel 172, f. 46v

Detail of decorated initial. Image taken from f. 46v of Sermons and excerpts. Written in Latin.

The Arundel Manuscript Collection was amassed by the Howard family, particularly Thomas Howard, the 2nd Earl of Arundel (1585-1646). Thomas Howard, the 2nd Earl of Arundel, who was a prominent figure during the early 17th century in England. Thomas Howard enjoyed a close relationship with King Charles I, and this connection allowed him to expand his collection. The king was granting him privileges to purchase manuscripts and books, and the collection grew in size and importance.

The English Civil War and the execution of King Charles I had a significant impact on Thomas Howard's life. During the war and the Commonwealth period, his collection faced threats of dispersion and destruction. Howard managed to protect many of his books and manuscripts by sending them abroad for safekeeping. After the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, the collection was returned to the Howard family.

augustine and others detail arundel bl arundel medieval manuscripts latin manuscript decorated initials illuminated initials medieval manuscript illustrated books medieval miniatures sermons british library

1300 - 1500

British Library

http://europeana.eu/

Public Domain