Facsimile of Codex Manesse.

Limited edition facsimile, number 3 of 320 copies. The Codex Manesse, compiled c.1304-40, is the single most comprehensive source for Middle High German poetry, and among the most widely esteemed of all German manuscripts, renowned for the beauty of its illustration. A triumph of early 20th-century reproduction, this facsimile is remarkably accurate, retaining every detail down to the discolouration to the pages, the unevenness of the page edges, library stamps, and early annotations. The original manuscript is held at the library of the University of Heidelberg, where it is rarely exhibited, due to its fragility. A copy of this facsimile is on display instead. Future facsimiles were produced, but none surpass or equal this edition, and it remains the most desired among collectors. Quarto. Original white pigskin, spine and front cover lettered in blind. Very light soiling to covers, contents fine. An excellent copy.