Russian Orthodox Church

12mo (132 x 80mm.), first two pages within woodcut border, 18 full-page woodcuts (some signed "Ie. Sevast.", i.e. Father Sevastyan, and "M.F."), woodcut initials and headpieces, 4 smaller woodcuts, contemporary Ukrainian binding of vellum elaborately gilt with a centrepiece of Christ in Majesty on upper cover and the Virgin and Child on the lower cover, spine gilt in compartments, edges gilt and gauffered and coloured red and green in a foliage design, two engraved clasps, upper joint split, binding slightly rubbed, lacking both straps and one catchplate

S.A. Klepikov, "Historical notes on Ukrainian bookbinding", The Book Collector 1966, 135-142, particularly p.140

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."

A charming devotional volume with fine woodcuts and a Ukrainian binding typical of the period. The Pecherskaya Lavra (or Monastery of the Caves) in Kiev was an important centre of book production from 1615 onwards. One of the woodcuts depicts the monks Anthony and Theodosius, founders of the monastery in the eleventh century, with a view of the church in the background.