National Museum of Asian Art, East Building
In the Beginning: Bibles Before the Year 1000
October 21, 2006 – January 7, 2007
For the first time, many of the most important codices in the world from the 2nd to10th centuries are on view. This exhibition examines the emergence of a canonical set of texts, their translation into diverse languages and dissemination over a vast geographical expanse, and the uses and iconic status of the Bible as book. Works on display range from fragments of the earliest papyrus codices to lavishly inscribed manuscripts on purple parchment, beautifully illustrated, and enclosed in elaborately decorated covers.
Catalogue
Audio Guide
