Spiera, Ambrosius de

folio (238 x 167mm.), 509 leaves (of 512, without initial blank and two final blank leaves), (2-5)¹⁰ (6-9)⁸; a-l¹⁰ m⁸ N⁶ n-z aa-ii¹⁰ kk¹² ll-rr¹⁰ ss¹² [long s long s]-zz [et et]¹⁰ [con con]⁶, double column, gothic type, 46 lines, 3- to 8-line initial spaces, early manuscript foliation in red (sometimes cropped), early marginal notes (some cropped), early nineteenth-century red morocco gilt (probably by Storr of Grantham), spine gilt in compartments, gilt edges, cut close, a few leaves lightly browned, occasional light staining

Sir John Hayford Thorold, Syston Park bookplate, sale, 12 December 1884, lot 79, £3-10s; William O'Brien, bequest booklabel dated 1899

Goff S678; HC 919; BMC v 248; BSB-Ink S-522; Bod-inc S-277; GW M43136; Grosjean & O'Connell 104

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 this collection of Lenten sermons by the Servite preacher from Treviso, Ambrosius de Spiera (c. 1414-1454/5). This is one of the last books to be printed by Vindelinus de Spira (see lots 25, 101, 102 and 119 for other works from his press, including one of his earliest books, a 1470 Cicero).