This catalogue provides detailed descriptions of Armenian manuscripts and fragments sold at various London auction houses, particularly Sotheby's, Christie's, Sam Fogg, and Bonhams, between 1974 and 2016. The material reflects the wide spectrum of the Armenian written heritage of over 200 biblical and liturgical manuscripts, patristic and theological works, philosophical treatises, historiographical texts, lexicographical compositions, medical writings and literary works, as well as devotional materials such as prayer scrolls.
The entries comprise complete volumes and fragments on vellum and paper, exhibiting a rich diversity of artistic, iconographic, paleographical and codicological features. The 10th to the 19th century, bearing witness to the continuity and development of Armenian scribal culture throughout the medieval and early modern periods.
These valuable manuscripts are the tireless work of Revd. Dr. Nerses Nersessian's over more than four decades with a London auction house, and constitute an invaluable contribution. The context fills the long-standing gaps in Armenian codicology and manuscript cataloguing. The event is to launch the new publication, and each presenter will reflect on one of the manuscripts described in the "Catalogue." Dr. Michael Bazyler will reflect on its proper identification in various repositories.
Opening remarks by Arayik Khzmalyan, Director of the "Matenadaran" Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient
Manuscripts, and a 6-minute screening of Father Dr. Vrej Nersessian's interview by Dr. Carla Garapedian.
For additional information please email Eskijian@ararat-eskijian-museum.com or call (747) 500-7585