Homer.

Median folio (337 x 226mm.), 250 leaves (of 440), 39 lines, Greek type, 3- to 10-line initial spaces, binding: eighteenth-century calf, spine gilt in compartments, early annotations (washed), lacking the Odyssey, first leaf slightly spotted, marginal paper repairs to quire ET, a few small wormholes in last few leaves, occasional light staining, binding rubbed

H 8772; BMC vi 678; Goff H300

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."

editio princeps of the iliad. Demetrius Chalcondylas was professor of Greek at the Florentine Studio from 1475 until 1491. Although a notable Greek scholar, he was somewhat overshadowed there by the younger and more dynamic Poliziano, who in 1486-1487 lectured on Homer. This monumental printing of the text of Homer, not repeated until Aldus's octavo edition of 1504, was not however subjected to philological or critical scrutiny by Chalcondylas, although he did select more recent manuscripts as exemplars. Aldus did indeed base his own edition on Chalcondylas's text.

The type is that of Demetrius Damilas, a scribe who had previously been active in the printing of Greek books in Milan since 1476. It was based on the handwriting of Michael Apostolis, which was simpler and more distinct than Damilas's own elegant but elaborate hand.

This is also probably the first greek book printed in florence. The rare Erotemata by Emanuel Chrysoloras, which survives in only two copies, was printed in Florence either in [1475] or [c. 1488-1494].