Homer

Chancery folio (305 x 207mm.), 90 leaves, *² a-b⁸ c-o⁶, 46 lines, 3- to 9-line initial spaces, roman type, two blank leaves inserted between quires * and a, contemporary half blind-ruled pigskin over bevelled wooden boards, boards with later red colouring, paper label on upper cover, single clasp (later), lettered along top of foredge, slight worming at foot, spine defective at foot, upper cover becoming loose, foredge of upper cover slightly defective

Goff H312; H 8775; BMC vii 986; Bod-inc H-142; BSB-Ink H320; GW 12898

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."

This Latin prose translation, commissioned from Valla by Alfonso of Aragon in the 1440s, was first published in 1474, also in Brescia. Valla's translation up to book 16 was completed by his pupil, Francesco Griffolini, who later translated the Odyssey. It was this Latin version, albeit somewhat paraphrased, that resulted the diffusion of Homer through western Europe.