The British government's blocked the export of a golden jewel-encrusted prayer book which once belonged to a king of France in the hope a museum can raise enoug
The Book Of Hours has an enamelled gold metal cover studded with gems such as rubies, turquoise and tourmaline and contains parchment painted with 20 religious images and prayers to be said throughout the day.
A popular Christian devotional item in the Middle Ages, this particular prayer book belonged to Francois I of France.
It was made in 1532 and has been purchased by an overseas buyer for £8m.
Culture minister Ed Vaizey has placed a temporary export bar on the Book of Hours to give a UK buyer time to come up with £8 million to save it for the nation.
He said: "This exceptional book provides us with a rare glimpse into the royal courts of 16th century Renaissance France and is of outstanding scholarly value.
"I hope that this unique book remains in the UK for the public to enjoy."
News you can believe in. Stand with Premier Christian News today.
Your gift today ensures that Premier Christian News can press forward in strength, reaching more people with biblical truth and shaping the future of Christian thought. It’s more than just a donation—it’s an investment in renewed minds and transformed lives.
Without continued support, the ability to create and distribute resources that strengthen faith and equip the church will be compromised. But with your help, we can grow deeper, stand firmer, and shine brighter in the culture.
Your support today is critical.
Support Us
Article by Aaron James
Tola Mbakwe is a multimedia journalist for Premier.
