The expected price is insane.
A significant ancient manuscript, known as the Crosby-Schøyen Codex, containing complete versions of the biblical books Jonah and 1 Peter, is currently being auctioned at Christie’s in London, with expectations of fetching up to $3.8 million. Originating from Egypt and dating back to the third and fourth centuries, the codex is part of Christie’s broader auction lineup showcasing manuscripts spanning 1,300 years of cultural history. Notable alongside it are manuscripts like the Codex Sinaiticus Rescriptus and the Geraardsbergen Bible, which collectively document pivotal religious and cultural shifts over time.
Eugenio Donadoni, a senior specialist at Christie’s, underscores the Crosby-Schøyen Codex as a foundational artifact in early Christian history. He highlights its role in illuminating the spread of Christianity throughout the Mediterranean and its significance in early Easter celebrations and monastic practices in Upper Egypt. The manuscript was originally in the possession of the University of Mississippi, undiscovered for approximately 1,500 years, before being acquired by Norwegian collector Dr. Martin Schøyen in 1988. It has since gained recognition as the oldest privately held book.
The codex’s creation during a formative period for Christianity, when adherents were still shaping their identity under strong Jewish influences, precedes the religion’s official endorsement by Emperor Constantine in 312 AD. Donadoni emphasizes the codex’s likely use as a liturgical text, particularly for Easter rites, offering insights into early Christian rituals and beliefs.
Christie’s underscores the codex’s historical significance not only for its content but also for its physical form. It represents an early departure from the scroll format prevalent in antiquity, instead adopting the codex format — a precursor to modern books. Comprising 136 pages of stitched papyrus rectangles, the codex reflects an innovative approach to manuscript production during its time.
The scribe responsible for the Crosby-Schøyen Codex likely belonged to the emerging cohort of early Christian monks, influenced by figures like Pachomius, who laid the foundations of Christian monasticism. This movement was characterized by asceticism and devout worship, marking a significant shift in religious practice. The manuscript’s exceptional preservation is credited to Egypt’s dry climate, which has safeguarded numerous ancient texts and contributed to the codex’s survival over millennia.