BnF public appeal for the acquisition of a royal manuscript of King François Ier of France

The French National Library has launched a public appeal for the acquisition of a royal manuscript of King François Ier of France,Description des Douze Césars avec leurs figures (Tours, c. 1520).
This exceptional manuscript, classified as National Treasure, was illuminated by Jean Bourdichon for King François Ier of France. The manuscript which is one of three original copies, is the most beautiful and will be the first to enter the French national collections.
These manuscripts were probably made to be used as diplomatic gifts for King Henry VIIIth of England and Charles Quint.
The public appeal is open to all who wish to help the French National Library to enrich its collections. Once acquired, the manuscript will be digitised and made available on our digital library, Gallica, for all to admire.
If you wish to participate as an international donor, you may :
– make a donation directly online at bnf.frIt is fast and secure.
– write to us :
Bibliothèque nationale de France
Délégation au mécénat
Quai François Mauriac
75706 Paris cedex 13
France