Over the summer, Oklahoma State University Special Collections and University Archives acquired two medieval-era manuscripts.
The recent purchases are the "Book of Medicine" owned by Siguna Stibichin and first used in the 1570s, and a copy of Petrus Kerzenmacher’s "Alchimia" from the 1550s.
The unique subject matter of the "Book of Medicine" demonstrates relevance to a multitude of careers and majors. Stibichin was a noblewoman from Austria and an early medical practitioner. The book contains 80 remedies for various ailments with contributions from multiple individuals, each in a different handwriting. It was likely written entirely by women and lent out to other noble households.
The other manuscript, "Alchimia," is a copy of Kerzenmacher's work, which includes recipes and illustrations for alchemical practices. Alchemy is the mystical precursor to modern science, often involving the transmutation of common metals into rare ones. Alchemy was initially viewed as a type of sorcery. However, throughout its development, alchemy became an acceptable practice through its integration with the Christian faith. “Alchimia" has several illustrations and includes a psalm, hymn and charm.
Interest in acquiring these manuscripts grew rapidly after a temporary exhibition of nine medieval-era manuscripts in spring 2023.
Dr. Mary Larson, associate dean for special collections, articulated the purpose and goals for curating a practical and unique manuscript collection.
"When we purchase things for the collection, we're trying to find things that would be useful in more than one way," Larson said.
Many classes at OSU have begun incorporating the medieval manuscript collection into their curriculum. History, English, art and graphic design classes are just some of the classes that have visited them. Classes from the Ferguson College of Agriculture and College of Education and Human Sciences have visited as well. Several more have expressed interest.
The materials acquired by Special Collections and University Archives are meant to engage as many majors and people as possible. Growing interests from the public and university system are making material collections a priority as well. Additionally, one does not need to be engaged in research or affiliated academic institutions; the materials are available to the public.
"A family even came from Amarillo last time we held an open house," Larson said. "These types of manuscripts are so hard to come by. We have been looking for a few years."
Anyone interested in seeing OSU Libraries’ new manuscripts are encouraged to make an appointment with Benjamin Hedges at Benjamin.Hedges@okstate.edu.
