Events | August 13, 2015

Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books Makes Its Debut at BIAF

This Autumn, Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books will exhibit for the first time at the 29th edition of the Biennale Internazionale dell’Antiquariato di Firenze. This historic and established fair will take place at the magnificent Palazzo Corsini, Florence, from 26 September - 4 October 2015, with a preview on 25 September.

Presenting an extensive choice of art and objects across all disciplines, BIAF is a haven for collectors, curators and art aficionados alike, and is the perfect setting for Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books to offer both specialist expertise, and an unparalleled selection of illuminated manuscripts and rare books, that range from £50,000 to £10,000,000.

Dr. Jörn Günther comments, "I am particularly proud to have been invited by Fabrizio Moretti, the fair's General Secretary, to make our debut at this year's Biennale Internazionale dell’Antiquariato di Firenze. Widely regarded as one of the most important arts and antiques fairs in Europe, it is an honor to display our outstanding collection alongside some of the finest dealers from around the world in the beautiful and unique setting of the Palazzo Corsini, an architectural masterpiece steeped in Florentine heritage. We look forward to welcoming collectors and enthusiasts—new and existing—to our stand.” 

A standout piece which Dr. Jörn Günther Rare Books will present at BIAF is a 15th-century French translation of Giovanni Boccaccio’s Des Cas des Nobles Hommes et Femmes: a collection of cautionary tales about famous individuals, first written in Latin circa 1358 by the great Florentine author, poet, and humanist. Boccaccio’s text narrates the biographies of people that fell into misfortune, and is noted for its realistic dialogue and didactic nature. These manuscripts rarely come to market, with the Schoenberg database listing only two codices being sold since 1955.