Hippiatric Compilation Anonymous (Ἱππιατρικὰ τὰ ἀνώνυμα)

Life The compiler(s) of the anonymous hippiatric corpus are unknown. The work was assembled in the 5th–6th centuries CE, during Late Antiquity, a period characterized by the synthesis of earlier technical knowledge [1]. Its language and transmission history suggest a provenance within the Eastern Roman Empire [1].

Works The compilation is known as the Hippiatrica (Ἱππιατρικά), an extensive anthology of Greek and Latin texts on equine medicine. It preserves excerpts from numerous earlier authors, including Apsyrtus, Theomnestus, Eumelus, Hierocles, and Anatolius of Berytus [1][2]. The work also incorporates material from the Latin author Pelagonius, translated into Greek [1].

Significance The Hippiatrica is a major source for the history of veterinary science, uniquely preserving fragments of earlier works that would otherwise be lost [1][2]. It served as a practical handbook and represents a critical link in the transmission of technical knowledge from antiquity into the Byzantine era. The text provides valuable insights into daily life, agriculture, and military cavalry [1].

Sources 1. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Classics: Hippiatrica: https://oxfordre.com/classics/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.001.0001/acrefore-9780199381135-e-3090 2. Perseus Digital Library, Catalog of Greek and Latin Authors: Apsyrtus: http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0054:entry=apsyrtus