Lucian of Samosata (c. 120-180 AD).

Median folio (340 x 216mm.), 262 leaves, 42 lines, Greek letter, illustration: contemporary north Italian decoration on first leaf, 10-line initial containing a portrait of the author in a frame surmounted by two dolphins, left-hand margin with a plant extending upwards from an urn, the lower border with a central roundel containing arms (damaged), title within a cartouche depicted hanging from a nail, 3- to 4-line initials supplied alternately in red and blue, paragraph marks in red and blue, binding: eighteenth-century calf, gilt double-fillet border, gilt triple-ruled central panel design, corner fleurons, spine gilt in compartments

HC(+Add) 10258; BMC vi 667; Goff L320

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 Lucian, the master satirist whose Vera Historiae combines rhetorical brilliance with strong elements of science fiction. Lucian is also well-known for his development of the satirical dialogue: witty deconstructions of contemporary religious and philosophical mores.

This edition was prepared by Janus Lascaris (1445-1535) who had, at the behest of his patron Lorenzo de' Medici, plundered several hundred manuscripts from various Greek sources (including the libraries of Mount Athos) earlier in the decade, and who was also responsible for the editiones principes of Euripides, Callimachus and Apollonius Rhodius.