Variety from James Cummins Bookseller

Item 33 is an unusual illuminated manuscript from 1670. It is designed in the form of a diadem, sort of a high-class headband worn by monarchs or others of royalty. This one was presented to Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor from 1658-1705. Leopold recaptured most of Hungary from the Turks, but fought a bunch of no-win battles against the French. This manuscript on vellum has a large circle in the center, eight smaller circles surrounding it, and a series of concentric rings at the outer edges. Each is filled with text - verse and prose in Latin and Italian. Don't try to read it. What is most notable is the microscopic hand in which it was written. Either Leopold had extraordinary vision or a strong magnifying glass. The scribe who created this work of artistic fine print is unknown. $7,500.

James Cummins Bookseller may be reached at 212-688-6441 or info@jamescumminsbookseller.com. The website is www.jamescumminsbookseller.com.