Replacement Black Book of Hours Image for TEFAF Guide

Horae beatae marie secundum usum curie romane (Black Book of Hours), c. 1458. Photo courtesy of The Hispanic Society Museum & Library.

TEFAF TALKS

The Black Book of Hours and the Role of Philanthropy in Manuscript Preservation

Shedding light on the collaborative efforts of conservators and philanthropists in preserving cultural treasures

TEFAF Talk

SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025

1:00PM — 2:00PM EDT
VETERANS ROOM, TEFAF NEW YORK

Please note, registration is mandatory but free to TEFAF New York ticket holders

Overview

Manuscript conservation requires expertise, dedication, and often, the crucial backing of philanthropy. This talk takes the audience behind the scenes of a complex preservation project centered around one of the most significant objects in the collection of The Hispanic Society Museum & Library in New York, a medieval manuscript on colored parchment known as the Black Book of Hours. The discussion will explore the technical and ethical challenges of conserving such a delicate piece, alongside the intrinsic role that philanthropy plays in supporting and sustaining these efforts.

Director and CEO of The Hispanic Society Guillaume Kientz will provide the broader institutional perspective alongside Conservator Emerita Monica Katz's insights into the creative and technical approach of manuscript conservation. Finally, James Blanco, board member of the institution, will speak on the role of funding as an intersecting contributor in ensuring the preservation and longevity of important cultural artefacts, such as the Black Book of Hours.

TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with ICOM-CC and moderated by Carolyn Riccardelli, Objects Conservator at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Panelists

Carolyn Riccardelli
Carolyn Riccardelli Objects Conservator, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
File guillaume kienz
Guillaume Kientz Director and CEO, The Hispanic Society Museum & Library
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James Blanco Senior Managing Director of Financial Services, Guggenheim Partners, Board Member, The Hispanic Society Museum & Library
Katz Headshot Monica Katz
Monica Katz Conservator Emerita, The Hispanic Society Museum & Library

Location & Access

Please arrive 5 minutes before the program starts. Kindly note that late arrivals may not be permitted entry, and your spot could be given to another guest.

Programming will take place at the TEFAF Veterans Room on the first floor of the Park Avenue Armory, TEFAF New York. The event will be recorded. Please note, registration is mandatory but free to TEFAF New York ticket holders.

For questions about registration contact:
[email protected]