Oxford University unveiled Friday in its Bodleian Libraries a "once-in-a-generation" exhibition of materials related to "The Lord of the Rings" author J. R. R. Tolkien. It features previously never-seen-before items from several countries.

"Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth" presents manuscripts, artworks, maps, letters and artefacts in the biggest display in decades on the beloved British author -- whose works gave rise to a hugely successful film series.

Some of the exhibits are returning to Oxford -- where Tolkien spent most of his adult life -- for the first time since his death in London in 1973.

The displays showcase the range of Tolkien's output, from early abstract paintings and tales he wrote for his children, to material related to works published posthumously.

Bodleian, the university's main research library, has presented much of this extensive archive, alongside interactive elements such as a three-dimensional map of his imagined "middle-earth". But among the centerpieces of the exhibition are some loans: rare draft manuscripts and exquisite illustrations for "The Hobbit" -- Tolkien's breakthrough published in 1937 -- and his 1954 follow-up "The Lord of the Rings".

Bodleian organizers hope visitors will also explore Tolkien's relationship with Oxford.

Born in South Africa, he was raised in and around Birmingham but arrived in Oxford as an undergraduate at Exeter College. He returned as a professor of English language and literature at Merton College, becoming friends with other rising literary figures there.

The university professor with a consuming passion for rare, historical languages and a vivid imagination, was also buried in Wolvercote Cemetery in a northern suburb of Oxford.

The exhibition runs until October 28 and hopes to attract 100,000 visitors. SW, CGTN.