This exhibition is devoted to a
single work of art, an illuminated, handwritten Bible commissioned by Saint
John's University and Abbey in Minnesota. This contemporary
Bible is at once old and new: a masterpiece of the ancient crafts of calligraphy
and illumination that could only be made by artists of today. This unique
undertaking combines a centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship with the
latest capabilities of computer technology and electronic communication.
In addition to the St. John's Bible, this installation includes several
priceless volumes from the Library's collection of 1500 printed Bibles
housed in the Rare Book and Special Collections Division. The works on display
cover more than five centuries and illustrate a wide range of formats, printing,
and artistic achievements.