Every now and then we come across a real page Turner. So here it is, with a little help from a 1980s power ballad.

You’re simply the bestiary!



Better than all the restiary …

Better than any swan

Any swan I ever met

I’m stuck on your hart!

I hang on every word you say

Tear us apart -

No no -

Baby, I would rather be dead.

Oooh! You’re the best!

All these images are from a richly illuminated bestiary in the British Library’s collections, Royal MS 12 C XIX. The manuscript in question was made in England early in the 13th century, and is related to other bestiaries now held at the Bodleian Library in Oxford and the Pierpont Morgan Library in New York. Follow the hyperlinks and you'll discover more of its beautiful images. We love it and have more than a feeling that you will, too.

And what's love got to do with it? Everything.

Amy Jeffs

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