Rare 63-Line 13th-Century Paris Bible Leaf – Book of Ezekiel, France, Paris

13th-Century Paris Bible Leaf – Book of Ezekiel, Chapters 12–16
France, Paris, c. 1240–1270 A.D.
Script: Gothic Textualis | Material: Vellum | Lines per column: 63
Size: Folio, approx. 12 x 8 inches

This extraordinary manuscript leaf comes from a rare and finely crafted 13th-century Latin Bible, most likely produced in Paris during the golden age of university scriptoria. Written in a highly precise Gothic Textualis script, the page features an impressive 63 lines per column, marking it as an elite example of the dense, scholarly Bibles commissioned for academic or clerical use.

The text contains Ezekiel 12–16, a powerful section of prophetic literature dealing with divine judgment, false prophets, idolatry, and ultimately, God’s unwavering covenant. These chapters include striking imagery — such as the condemnation of deceitful prophets, Jerusalem portrayed as an unfaithful bride, and God’s redemptive promise despite Israel’s rebellion.

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Features:
• Two columns of 63 lines, written in dark brown iron gall ink
• Chapter numerals (XIII–XVI) in alternating red and blue with elaborate pen flourishes
• Decorated initials introducing each new chapter, extending into the margins with intricate detail
• Running header “chiel”, a medieval abbreviation for Ezechiel (Ezekiel)
• Folio-sized on high-quality vellum, with clear ruling and strong legibility

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Condition:
Excellent condition for its age, with only minor marginal staining and natural vellum waviness. All text remains crisp and sharp. The decoration is vibrant and characteristic of Parisian workmanship. There a minor tears from previous mounting as remnants of the previous adhesive (see photos for more detail).

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A Rare Opportunity
Leaves from the Book of Ezekiel — especially in this dense folio format with 63 lines per column — are significantly rarer than those from the Psalms or Gospels. This is a museum-quality piece ideal for collectors, scholars, or institutions with a focus on medieval theology, prophetic literature, or biblical manuscript history.

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