The World's Most Expensive Book
In the world of rare books, the Codex Leicester stands out as a true gem. This notebook, written by the legendary Leonardo da Vinci, holds the title of the most expensive book ever sold. Let's dive into the fascinating history, content, and sale of this remarkable piece of history.
History
The Codex Leicester, named after its former owner Thomas Coke, the Earl of Leicester, is a 72-page notebook containing Leonardo da Vinci's scientific writings and illustrations. The notebook dates back to 1506-1510, during the Renaissance period when da Vinci was at the peak of his intellectual prowess. The Codex is written in Italian and features da Vinci's famous mirror writing, where the text appears backward.
Content
The Codex Leicester is a testament to da Vinci's insatiable curiosity and brilliant mind. The notebook covers a wide range of topics, including astronomy, geology, hydrology, and the properties of light. Da Vinci's observations and theories on the movement of water, the luminosity of the moon, and the nature of fossils are particularly noteworthy. The Codex also includes numerous diagrams, sketches, and illustrations that demonstrate da Vinci's exceptional artistic skills.
Sale
In 1994, the Codex Leicester made headlines when it was put up for auction at Christie's in New York. The auction attracted significant attention from collectors and institutions worldwide. In a fierce bidding war, the notebook was ultimately sold to Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, for a staggering $30.8 million. This sale set a new record for the most expensive book ever sold, a record that still stands today.
The Codex Leicester's journey didn't end with its sale. Bill Gates has been a generous custodian of the notebook, sharing its contents with the public through digital scans and exhibitions. In 2003, the Codex was displayed at the Seattle Art Museum, allowing visitors to marvel at da Vinci's genius. The notebook has also been loaned to museums around the world, ensuring that its knowledge and beauty can be appreciated by a wide audience.
The Codex Leicester remains an object of fascination for scholars, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. Its astronomical price tag reflects not only its rarity but also its immense cultural and historical significance.
keep on reading,
Jack