BIBLE, in Latin. Basel: Johann Froben, 27 June 1491.

BIBLE, in Latin. Basel: Johann Froben, 27 June 1491.

First octavo edition of the Bible, known as Froben’s “Bibliola." Froben was an intimate of Erasmus and the founder of the printing dynasty which made Basel the chief center of scholarly publishing in the early 16th century. This book was his first publication, and is often called the “Poor Man’s Bible” because it was marketed to scholarly lay people rather than ecclesiastical buyers. BMC III, 789; BSB-Ink B-466; Darlow and Moule 6086; Goff B-592; GW 4269; HC *3107; ib00592000.

Octavo (158 x 108mm). 496 leaves. 56 lines. One large opening initial, rubricated and with other initials in red, printed guide letters (3 bifolia strengthened at inner margin, closed tear affecting text, small area where type was not inked replaced with contemporary manuscript facsimile, occasional stains). Contemporary stamped calf, with remains of brass clasps, many leather index tabs preserved (rebacked with spine torn, wear and surface losses to boards, pastedowns removed, front board cracked). Provenance: erased inscription of a German monastery – “Ex Bibliis Steinacher” (inscription dated 1795).

Pre-Lot Text
PROPERTY FROM THE DESCENDANTS OF JOHN GRESHAM MACHEN