leidenspecial­collectionsblog — page 8

Words as pictures - Southwest Chinese Naxi manuscripts

In the second half of the 19th century, when European colonial powers were still mapping Asian river valleys, explorers and missionaries accidentally discovered a kind of picture-writing still in use by tribes in southwest China. These tribes would be grouped under one official umbrella: Naxi.

Asian Special Collections

Tradition and Modernity in the Palm-Leaf Manuscripts of Lombok

While military technology was adopted by the kingdom, the ancient palm-leaf manuscript tradition remained relevant in the culture and daily lives of the people of Lombok.

Middle Eastern Special Collections

Old Soldiers Never Die…

The Friends of Leiden University Libraries contribute to the acquisition of a late Ottoman luxury manuscript

‘ô Mia Divinità’- Bilderdijk’s Love Letters

Few love letters are more passionate and profound than those written by Romantic poets like Willem Bilderdijk. The real story of his love life, however, is complex and sadly filled with strife.

Asian Special Collections

A unique copy of a Yuan dynasty play from the Van Gulik Collection

The only surviving copy of a Chinese northern drama published by Wang Tingne: "Record of the Celestial Book" is held in the Asian Library Van Gulik Collection.

Manuscripts, Archives and Letters

Johan Huizinga’s archives, a goldmine for his works

150 years since the birth of Johan Huizinga, his academic archive held at Leiden University Libraries is a treasure trove of knowledge and insight.