Binding

This manuscript is bound in tawed leather and placed over two wooden boards. The binding dates back to the early 15th century— this was probably the original binding for these forty-one parchments leaves. The manuscript is also held together by four raised bands and sewn end bands. However, three of the four cords are broken at the front hinge (yet the sewing is still holding well). These strings have unfortunately collected a lot of dirt, resulting in some minor mold growth in the manuscript. The remains of a two-side clasp on front cover is also visible.

Despite some of the stress and damages to the binding, this manuscript has been preserved remarkably well. The book opens well and no page is falling-out. The spine of the manuscript indicates that it was a used-text, but it has sustained no major damage. However, there are many small holes in the book’s binding. After consulting with Bancroft’s Rare Book Specialist, Tony Bliss, it became clear that the holes were the byproducts of bookworms. As Mr. Bliss stated, “another testament of the manuscript’s true authenticity.”

An instructive video about reparing bookworm damage

The Maltese Bookworm from Speaking of Faith on Vimeo.