The Cambridge Interfaith Programme is pleased to promote a celebratory launch event for The Illustrated Cairo Genizah.
This event will be held at Heffers Bookshop and is organised by our friends at the Taylor-Schechter Genizah Research Unit (Cambridge University Library). It is part of celebrations marking the Genizah Research Unit’s 50th anniversary.
About The Illustrated Cairo Genizah
Almost 1000 years ago, the Jews of Old Cairo began to place their worn-out books and scrolls into a hidden storage room—a genizah—of their synagogue. Over the years, they added all sorts of writings to the pile, sacred and secular texts alike. When the chamber was emptied at the end of the 19th century, it held hundreds of thousands of paper and parchment fragments. Now known as the “Cairo Genizah” , it has become one of the most important sources of knowledge for the history of the Middle East and the Mediterranean world. This book offers the first illustrated introduction to the unique collection of Cairo Genizah manuscripts at Cambridge University Library.
Join Genizah experts Nick Posegay and Melonie Schmierer-Lee as they take you on a journey of discovery through more than 125 years of research at the University of Cambridge, showcasing over 300 stunning, full-colour manuscript images across 12 thematic chapters. From ancient bibles to medieval magic and Renaissance printing presses, The Illustrated Cairo Genizah reveals the forgotten stories of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities at the centre of a millennium of World History.
For further background to this beautiful illustrated volume, read our recent interview with author Dr Nick Posegay. Nick and his co-author Dr Melonie Schmierer will introduce their book, highlighting favourite passages. They will also be available to answer questions.
Important information
This event is hosted by Heffers and is ticketed.
Please register with Heffers using the link below.
Tickets are £5 (standard) or £48 (including a copy of The Illustrated Cairo Genizah).