Savonarola, Girolamo

Chancery 4to (211 x 139mm.), 54 leaves, a-d⁸ e-g⁶ h⁴, 34 lines, roman type, 3-line initial spaces, contemporary limp vellum, without the plate, binding slightly soiled, lacking both pairs of ties

Goff S179; HC 14334; BMC vi 674; BSB-Ink S-122; GW M40361 (recording 5 copies)

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."

FIRST EDITION of Savonarola's tract; his own Latin version appeared shortly after in October, and within the space of a year, there had been three editions in Italian and four in Latin. This edition was apparently issued with an accompanying copper engraving, not here present (see BMC).

Described as "a masterpiece of self-dramatisation" (Weinstein, Savonarola, 2011, p.168), it gives an account of Savonarola's career and his visions since his arrival in Florence in 1490. Its publication was timed as a response to the Pope's summons of Savonarola to Rome in July 1495.