This is a new volume in a continuing series of publications listing and identifying all illustrations contained in English manuscripts from the time of Chaucer to Henry VIII. This was an important period in the history of English book production, and the range of subject matter illustrated is of significance to historians of art, religion, literature, costume, natural science, and social custom. The present volume catalogues manuscripts in institutional collections in New York City, including the collections of the Morgan Library. The catalogue contains entries for 79 manuscripts and notes the subject matter of every illustration in each manuscript, from full-page miniatures and historiated initials to marginalia, added drawings and nota bene signs. A comprehensive index of pictorial subjects provides readers with complete references to the visual material with thematic groupings making the following categories easily accessible: animals, birds, Christ, costume, kings, medical and musical instruments, occupations/professions, personifications, saints, Virgin Mary, weapons and women. The volume also includes a User's Guide, an extensive glossary of subjects and terms and indexes of authors/texts and manuscripts with coats of arms.

The Journal of the Early Book Society for the Study of Manuscripts and Printing History (JEBS) publishes several substantial articles in each volume with emphasis on the period of transition from manuscript to print. This annual's main focus is on English and Continental works produced from 1350 to 1550. Additionally, JEBS includes brief notes on manuscripts and early printed books, descriptive reviews of recent works in the field, and notes on libraries and collections.