Peek Inside the 'Mona Lisa Bible' in Rome
A Historic Bible Unveiled in Rome
A 15th-century Bible, adorned with gold and Afghan lapis lazuli, has been revealed in Rome as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations. This remarkable manuscript, typically stored in Modena, is regarded as one of the most stunning examples of Renaissance illuminated manuscripts. It is also considered one of the most expensive books of its time.
The Bible was commissioned by Duke Borso D’Este and created between 1455 and 1461 by calligrapher Pietro Paolo Marone and illustrators Taddeo Crivelli and Franco dei Russi. The manuscript traveled with the Este family from Ferrara to Modena, where it remained until the family lost control of the city in 1859. At that time, the last duke fled to Vienna, and the Bible stayed with noble European families for years.
Eventually, Austria’s last empress sold the Bible to a Parisian antique collector in 1922. Italian industrialist Giovanni Treccani later donated the Bible to the Italian state after purchasing it in 1923 for 3.3 million French francs.
Alessandra Necci, director of Gallerie Estense in Modena, where the Bible is usually kept, refers to it as the “Mona Lisa of illuminated manuscripts” due to its exceptional artistry and religious inspiration. The Italian Culture Ministry views it as one of the highest expressions of miniature art, combining sacred value, historical significance, precious materials, and refined aesthetics.
The Bible was transported to Rome under heavy security, and its arrival at the Italian Senate was televised. During its stay in Rome, it will be displayed behind humidity-controlled plate glass. However, visitors can still explore the Bible through touch screen displays that offer ultra-high-resolution images, allowing them to “read” it digitally.
The so-called “Mona Lisa Bible” is currently on display in the Italian Senate and will remain there until 16 January. This exhibition marks a significant moment in the history of this extraordinary manuscript, offering the public a rare opportunity to witness its beauty and historical importance.
