Legenda Maior

Rather than following a strict biographical narrative, Bonaventure’s Latin text comprises fifteen chapters, alternating between narrative and thematic content, capturing the birth and progression of the Franciscan order.

This particular late 13th to early 14th century copy stands out with its one hundred sixty-four richly colored miniatures highlighted with gold. Encased within thick red frames against blue backgrounds adorned with white filigree, experts link the miniatures’ style to Umbrian illumination, suggesting its Umbrian origin. Scholars have noted the visual resemblances between the miniatures and Giotto’s fresco-cycle at the Superior Basilica of San Francisco in Assisi. Two or three painters likely illuminated the manuscript, though their association with Giotto or his workshop remains unclear. Nonetheless, the miniatures notably reference the monumental frescoes.

The book encompasses six hundred eighty-six illustrated figures, among which four hundred twenty-nine depict the evolution of the Franciscan habit. This aspect appears to have held great significance for readers, as numerous marginal annotations remark upon it.The manuscript’s numerous marginal notes also signify its widespread readership. Its intriguing history can be traced thanks to an additional quire at its beginning.

Originally meant for a northern Italian convent in Alba, the manuscript came into the possession of Juan de Nápoles in 1648. It subsequently passed through various hands, mysteriously disappearing and reappearing until it found its way to the Counts of Chinchón. In the 19th century, it returned to the general minister, Luis Iglesias, before later being held by José María Laso de Vega. Amidst the turmoil of the Carlist Wars, José María Laso de Vega secured the manuscript, which later resurfaced in 1937, albeit missing six leaves. It found its current home in the archives of Convento Franciscano Cardenal Cisneros.

Saint Francis of Assisi, the revered founder of the Franciscan Order, remains a central figure in the Roman Catholic Church’s history. His life has been chronicled through numerous manuscripts, books, and artistic renditions, including the monumental Legenda Maior, penned by the philosopher and theologian Bonaventura.

The facsimile edition of the Legenda Maior is complemented by a bookcase for its conservation and a complementary study book made by subject matter experts.

This facsimile is a unique edition of 995 books numbered and authenticated by notarial deed.