December 2018 Luncheon Program

Karen Christianson On
The Archeology of Medieval Manuscripts

This is going to be positively Medieval.

Some of the most venerated and valuable books are those painstakingly constructed manuscripts with elaborate bindings.  Everything was done by hand by craftspeople in a scriptorium somewhere that probably didn't have much in the way of central heating, air conditioning, or enough of the pumpkin spice pods to go with the Kuerig coffee makers.

Join us as the Newberry’s Karen Christianson's generously illustrated presentation reveals how the manuscripts were made -- from preparing the parchments to illuminating the texts to binding the books.  How complex was the process?  How many people would be involved?  Were there standard sizes or were these books all bespoke?  She will answer all of that and more, finishing with an example that is particularly apt for the season.

Karen Christianson draws on her background as historian, college lecturer, and Associate Director of the Newberry's Center for Renaissance Studies to deliver scholarly presentations with an entertaining touch.

Mark your calendar and make your reservation today!

December 7 Luncheon:  Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd.  Buffet opens at 11:30 am; Program 12:30 - 1:30.  Luncheon is $35.  Program free but please let us know you're coming.  Reservations or cancellations for lunch by noon on Wednesday the week of the luncheon.  Reserve online at caxtonclub.org, call (312)255-3710, or e-mail caxtonclub@newberry.org.