The Rijmbijbel

The oldest illustrated manuscript in Dutch contains a 13th-century Rijmbijbel (Rhymed Bible) by Jacob van Maerlant, a biblical paraphrase in paired rhyme, followed by a history of the First Jewish-Roman War, some decades after the death of Christ. The manuscript is lavishly illustrated, featuring no fewer than 159 precious miniatures. Due to its famous author, luxurious character, and the high artistic quality of its illuminations, it ranks among the international masterpieces of that period.

The introductory essay of this book provides an explanation for a general audience: it takes the reader to the time of the manuscript’s creation, its composition, the authorship of the text, its illustrations, subsequent owners, and how it gained recognition. The introduction is followed by a selection of 40 full-colour miniatures, each accompanied by the Middle Dutch text, a contemporary English translation, and a brief commentary to guide the reader.