Making Medieval Manuscripts

This is a short but excellent book. As usual Christopher de Hamel demonstrates both his immense experience of examining old manuscripts and a talent for communication. The book is copiously illustrated with excellent examples from a wide range of documents. De Hamel always seems able frame his explanations in a human context and using many little clues gives us an insight of the day to day production of these works of art as they evolved from insular monasteries and scriptoriums to in-effect make-to-order production lines for the very wealthy. It makes a great companion book to his other book "Meetings with remarkable manuscripts" as it gives us more of an insight on the production side as opposed to the history and possible thinking of those commissioning the works and owning them. De Hamel is also quite skilled at staying on topic, it would be easy to drift into all sorts of arcane areas, but he consciously avoids this. I enjoyed this short read immensely and learned a lot from it.

It would be hard to praise this book too highly. Originally published under a different title in 1992 but now updated and lavishly illustrated throughout, this is both a feast for the eyes and a fascinating exposition of the craft of making medieval manuscripts. My only minor reservation is that, at under 150 pages, the book should be longer, if only to spin out the pleasure of reading it.

A brilliant introduction to the world of medieval manuscripts and their production. Who knew a bible on vellum needed a whole herd of sheep to be produced? Excellent both for the student and the layperson.

Christopher De Hamel is a treasure, and this welcome reissue of an earlier book is just delightful. A fascinating subject presented by a most engaging writer. Highly recommended.

Interesting and informative

Clearly written and beautifully illustrated; like his other work, a pleasure to read

Excellent

A good update to his Medieval Craftsman book, BL. Well produced and accessible.