2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Chester Beatty who was responsible for amassing what has been called the finest private collection of manuscripts and books of the 20th century. As a result of his gift to the nation Beatty became the first person to receive honorary citizenship of Ireland and upon his death, the first private citizen in Irish history ever to receive a state funeral.  This fascinating documentary offers us a unique insight into the man, his amazing collection and the work that goes into preserving it.

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Repeated on RTE One at 1.15pm on Sat 5th January 2019