The Antidotarium of Nicolaus Myrepsus

A well-written manuscript in a neat uncial fourteenth century script with capitals in red. The text is complete, and contains the alphabetical Antidotarium of Nicolaus Myrepsus of Nicæa, translated into Latin. A table compiled from the Greek Text is preserved in MS.MSL.60 (§ 3). The first capital of each letter of the alphabet is large and elaborate as regards the letters B, C, D and E. The rest have not been drawn, though blanks have been left for them. From fo. 41 to the end, some of the small capitals are traced in blue. The main body of the text ends on folio 63, with the colophon: "Antidotarium explicit feliciter. Amen." A few addenda fill folios 63 and 64. Some notes in a sixteenth century hand are written on fo. 65 verso, and on fo. 67 verso.

14th century

68 folios, on vellum 8vo. 20.3 × 12.5 cm. Modern binding.

The Antidotarium, compiled from the writings of Greek, Latin and Arabic authors, contains over 2,500 recipes, and enjoyed great popularity until the sixteenth century.

Described in: Warren R. Dawson, Manuscripta medica. A descriptive catalogue of the manuscripts in the Library of the Medical Society of London (London, 1932).