Add MS 11758

Contents:

Peter of Poitiers (b. 1193, d. 1205), Compendium historiae in Genealogica Christi, a biblical chronicle in roll form consisting of a series of roundels with names, accompanied by brief biographical entries. The genealogy of Christ from Adam and Eve is in the central line, with historical figures and dynasties, including Roman emperors and kings of Israel arranged in synchronyl on either side. The prologue begins, 'Considerans historiae prolixitatem necnon difficultate[m] scolariu[m]', explaining that the diagrammatic chronicle is designed to help students memorise complex biblical material.

Membrane 1: The prologue is preceded by 15 short lines on the Creation of the earth, in two columns. Three large roundels labelled 'Eva-Adam', 'Noe' and 'Abraham'; a diagram of three cross-sections of the Ark;

Membrane 2: A large roundel labelled 'David'; a diagram of three arches with the 42 mansiones or encampments of the Israelites in the desert above a circular diagram of the 12 tribes of Israel;

Membrane 3: A large roundel labelled 'Jechonias, vel Joachim'; a circular plan of Jerusalem;

Membrane 4: A square diagram of the descent of Joseph from Mathan, Esta and Jacob; two large roundels intended for scenes of the Nativity, labelled '[Christ]i natus' and of the Ascension, labelled '[Christ'[i] ascendens' (the lower part of this roundel is lacking).

The dorse of the roll is blank (dorse abbreviated as d).

Decoration:

A genealogical diagram with lines of descent in red or brown, 7 large double roundels in red, probably intended to contain drawings. Numerous small roundels in brown containing names in brown or red. Pen diagrams in brown, blue and red. Rubrics in red. Initials in blue.