Publius Vergilius Maro
Publius Vergilius Maro. Aeneid, in Latin. 15th-century manuscript on paper written in Italy. Dated 22 February 1462. Many textual corrections, annotations and drawings in a slightly later hand. Bound in contemporary vellum.
Although esteemed as a poet, Vergil enjoyed a variety of reputations in the Middle Ages, including that of a necromancer; however, his literary reputation prevails. Lehigh's manuscript is an example of the sort of readily produced volume which the invention of paper and the industry of professional scribes made possible.
Acquired by Lehigh in 1959, the gift of Mr. Robert B. Honeyman, Jr.