Exploring the Crosby-Schoyen Codex
An ancient Egyptian book, known as the Crosby-Schoyen Codex, is set to be auctioned in June in London. This remarkable piece of history, written in Coptic on papyrus between 250-350 AD, is believed to be one of the oldest books in existence.
Key Details of the Codex
- Estimated sale value of $2.6 million to $3.8 million
- Produced in one of the first Christian monasteries
- Contains the earliest known texts of two books of the Bible: the Book of Jonah and the first epistle of Peter
- Consists of 104 pages (52 leaves) written over 40 years by a single scribe
Eugenio Donadoni, Christie’s Senior Specialist in Medieval and Renaissance Manuscripts, highlighted the significance of the codex, stating that it represents a transitional period in the history of books, marking the shift from papyrus scrolls to codex form.
Preservation and Discovery
Despite its age, the Crosby-Schoyen Codex has been remarkably preserved, thanks to Egypt’s arid climate. Only a limited number of books from the third and fourth centuries have survived to the present day, making this discovery even more exceptional.
Discovered in Egypt in the 1950s, the codex was later acquired by Norwegian manuscript collector Dr. Martin Schoyen in 1988. It is now part of his renowned Schoyen Collection, one of the largest private manuscript collections globally.
Upcoming Auction
The Crosby-Schoyen Codex is currently on display at Christie’s New York until April 9, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to view this ancient treasure. The auction is scheduled to take place in London on June 11, where the codex will be presented alongside other highlights from the Schoyen Collection.
