Reading the end of Fled Bricrenn: Multispectral Imaging applied to f. 9v of Leiden MS VLQ 7

Abstract

This contribution discusses the multi-spectral investigation of the previously illegible final page of Leiden, Universiteitsbibliotheek MS VLQ 7. The technical specifications of the images and the post-processing of the images are described in detail, to ensure replicable and open science. Furthermore, a transcription and translation of the previously illegible final folio (f. 9v), containing the famous Cennach ind Rúanado episode, is presented. This transcription is compared to the only other version of this episode in Edinburgh, National Library of Scotland MS Adv. 72.1.40. This comparison confirms Proinsias Mac Cana’s earlier observations on the scribal practices in both manuscripts. Finally, two newly discovered marginalia on f. 9v (one in secretary hand and one in insular hand) are briefly explored.