Fragments of the Decretum Gratiani, 14th century

Two leaves, formerly used as pastedowns, containing part of Gratian's Decretum , namely Distinctio IV, 9-21 and 99-118, of part III, on baptism. With a glossary, the sections of which are preceded by latters in alphabetical sequence. There are 16th century additions, including a whole alphabet.

Very little is known about Johannes Gratian, who was born in Italy, possibly in Chiusi, Tuscany. He became a Camaldolese monk, and taught at Bologna. At a date some time after 1139 (probably 1140), Gratian compiled the Church laws (`canons') from all available sources and called the collection Concordia Discordantium Canonum (the harmonizing of discordant canons). The collection became known as the Decretum Gratiani. He died before 1179, some say as early as 1160. Although the Dectretum was not an official collection, it was, for a time and for all practical purposes, accepted as the fundamental text of Church law.

Single item.

Access to this collection is unrestricted for the purpose of private study and personal research within the supervised environment and restrictions of the Library's Palaeography Room. Uncatalogued material may not be seen. Please contact the University Archivist for details.

Bought from Mr.J.H.P.Pafford, in 1962.

Collection level description.

13" x 9". Initials in blue with red ornament, those for the glossary are 2-line; red and blue capitals; running heading in red and blue; rubricated.

Compiled by Sarah Aitchison as part of the RSLP AIM25 Project.

Copies may be made, subject to the condition of the original. Copying must be undertaken by the Palaeography Room staff, who will need a minimum of 24 hours to process requests.