An encylopaedia in Latin, here in a set of five volumes possibly
from an original six (lacking Part V Book i). Made for William Gray
(d. 1478), later Bishop of Ely, during his travels in Germany and
Italy. The various scribes and illuminators, perhaps working
largely at Cologne, display an international range of influences:
Dutch, Italian, English, even Spanish. Illuminated initials and
borders sometimes include Gray's coat of arms.
Continued in MSS 238B–E.
Provenance: William Gray (d. 1478), later Bishop of Ely. Bequeathed
with his library to Balliol College.
Hand: Good clear hand, that of MS 238B.