The original binding was lost forever, as a result of pillage on the part of Napoleon’s troops in 1798. Bound once more in 1809-1810, the codex features a red velvet cover of considerable beauty and refinement which, in its design, anticipates the Neo-Gothic style. The gilded ferrules and clasps  are the work of the London binders, Benjamin II and James Smith, whose initials are to be found stamped on the clasp strips. On the front and back covers, elegant medallions enclose coats of arms, executed with porcelain, of the Towneley family.
The codex’s current name is derived from that of Sir John Towneley (1731-1814), a renowned English collector.