Rüxner, Georg

folio (318 x 204mm.), woodcut armorials and illustrations, folding woodcut plate, woodcut printer's device below colophon, contemporary stamped pigskin over wooden boards, corner bosses and two clasps, some offsetting, occasional light staining or browning, fifth leaf slightly torn in gutter, plate cut close at foredge and with small repaired tear, binding slightly rubbed

VD16 R3541; cf. Fairfax Murray, German 373 (second edition of 1532)

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 detailed description of the 36 tournaments held between the reign of Henry the Fowler (in the tenth century) and 1487, with a preface (taken from another author, Marx Wirsung) about the origins of tournaments. The participants of each tournament are listed, and the woodcuts depict not just the competitions but also the prize giving and associated feasting. It was reprinted in 1522 and again in 1566, with new woodcuts by Jost Amman.

The elegant typeface is based on a Fraktur script by Johann Neudörffer (for whom see lot 170) and is one of the earliest Fraktur typefaces.