[Rarebooks] FS: Letters on the Crusades, etc.; 1486 with fine illuminated initial and rubricated throughout

[charles agvent]

One of 45 fine items from our list of Spring New Arrivals.  All 45 can 
be seen at http://www.erols.com/agvent

AENEAS SYLVIUS PICCOLOMINI (POPE PIUS II). FAMILIARES EPISTOLE AD 
DIVERSOS. (Nuremberg): (Anton Koberger) (17 July 1486). Large octavo 
(6-1/4" x 8-3/4") bound in contemporary blind-stamped goatskinover 
wooden boards with metal clasps (ties lacking) and blind-stamped small 
oval central insets on each cover, Christ on the front and apparently 
the Virgin Mary on the rear. With dedication letter to the readers of 
Niklas of Wyle and with poem on the Virgin Mary. Later Edition of this 
important collection of letters by the eminent Italian humanist who 
later became Pope Pius II. Piccolomini corresponded with many scholars 
of his time, including Emperor Frederick III and King Wenceslaus of 
Bohemia, about a variety of matters religious, political, and social, 
from family problems to the Crusade against the Turks. Goff P-719; 
Hain 154. With 245 (of 246) leaves, lacking the initial blank, with 
the printing information contained on the colophon page which is 
present. Black letter type, 52 lines, with a 15-line initial on leaf 
b2 illuminated in gold, red, green, and blue; other initials 
rubricated or asurized throughout. Very occasional contemporary 
marginal annotations. Six consecutive leaves with a short tear in the 
margin just extending into the text without loss. Inside of rear board 
once split vertically and now repaired; some chipping to the spine 
tips and small areas of leather lost from the rear board. Near Fine in 
a Very Good early binding.    $9000

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CHARLES AGVENT
291 Linden Road
Mertztown, PA 19539-8750
610-682-4750; FAX: 610-682-4620
agvent at erols.com
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