Comenius, Johann Amos.

8vo (172 x 99mm.), [14], 159, 168-434, [70]pp., title-page printed in red and black, illustration: 2 folding letterpress plates, woodcut illustrations (a few crudely coloured), woodcut initials, binding: contemporary sheep, spine gilt in compartments, woodcut number 4 (p.17) missing, spotting, some tears (repaired), rust hole in B2 affecting a few letters, small hole in 2E1 affecting a few letters, spotting and staining, binding very worn, upper cover detached

Bruun IV, 28

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comenius' famous work revolutionised the way in which languages were taught and how school books were presented. It appeared in many different combinations of language and remained hugely popular for more than a century. Indeed his modus docendi, learning Latin by associating image and word, came back in vogue from the 1960s with the advent of the Cambridge Latin Project.

The present copy appears to have been quite lightly used; it probably never saw active service in the schoolroom, although it has received the attentions of a child (perhaps called John from the appearance of the name on a couple of leaves, which could also refer to the author's Christian name) equipped with some crayons, questionable artistic talent and a perhaps blessedly short attention span.