English MS 78

Later Version Wycliffe New Testament, beginning of 15th century

Size: 160 x 108 mm. iii + 173 + iii folios.

Later version of John Wycliffe's translation of the New Testament, ending imperfectly at 2 Corinthians 7: 2, with the usual prologues, and preceded by a calendar of Epistles and Gospels.

There are 4- and 5-line initials in burnished gold on blue and pink grounds with white penwork, on ff. 9v, 48r (rubbed), 72r, 113v, 142v (torn out), 156r and 169v.

The manuscript appears to have been in the West Country in the 16th century, judging by early marks of ownership. Later owners include William Simonds Higgs, F.S.A.; John Wilks senior (?1765-1854), attorney and politician; Thomas Rodd, bookseller; Bertram, 4th Earl of Ashburnham (1797-1878) (Appendix no. 21); and Henry Yates Thompson (1838-1928).

Related links

• Catalogue entry for English MS 78
• Conservation report

Manuscript Index