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Friends of Senate House Library attend private view of First Folios

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On 17 May 2023, the Friends of the Senate House Library were invited to a private viewing of an exhibition at Christie’s, to see a collection of Shakespeare’s First Folios. The exhibition featured six copies of the First Folio, one of which was loaned by Senate House Library for the exhibition.

Shakespeare 1st Folio

Published 400 years ago in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare’s death, the First Folio brought together the playwright’s collected plays for the first time. The folio edition contains 36 plays, including 17 that were printed during his lifetime, one that was printed after his death, and 18 that might otherwise have been lost — among them Macbeth, Twelfth Night, Measure for Measure, and Julius Caesar.  

Speaking about the visit from the Friends, Margaret Ford, Christie’s International Head of Books & Manuscripts in London, who led the exhibition and told the stories of the Folios said, “It was a pleasure to speak with such an engaged and receptive audience.”  

The exhibition at Christie's is open to the public and takes place from 2-26 May 2023.  

The Friends of Senate House Library
The Friends of Senate House Library work to increase awareness of the Library's nationally important collections, and to raise funds in support of the Library’s activities. They also host a programme of events throughout the year. Learn more about the Friends and how to become a member.