Biblioteca Curiosa (ang.k.)

This book presents 123 publications from the 15th–20th centuries now kept at the Rare Books Department of Vilnius University Library that reflect the intriguing world of old printed books: included are books describing the scientific achievements of the 16th century in the fields of brain activity research and midwifery, a handbook on witch-hunting, a catalogue of inborn deformities, descriptions of pompous funerals and ship disasters from the 17th century, etiquette advice, translations of early Chinese military treatises from the 18th century, and other curiosities. A separate group of curiosa books consists of publications which were found to contain various items between their pages: notes, bookmarks, pictures, feathers, etc. Historical and threatening inscriptions, portraits and sketches made by readers or former owners found in books featuring old, ornate wrought-iron covers add great historical value to the collection. Over 200 of the most unexpected colour illustrations from these VU Library books and simple descriptions presenting them will introduce readers to the enchanting and quite surprising world of old books.