JACOBUS DE THERAMO, CONSOLATIO PECCATORUM, [COLOGNE, C. 1473], LATER HALF VELLUM

Chancery folio (285 x 196mm.), 96 leaves, [a–h10 i–k8], double column, 36 lines, gothic type, 3- and 4-line initials in red, first 6-line initial in blue with red penwork decoration, red initial strokes, a line of text added in manuscript to foot of [b]2, nineteenth-century half vellum, nineteenth-century English manuscript note about the book on flyleaf, slight water-damage to head with some leaves in quire e repaired at head, last 10 leaves slightly damaged and repaired at edges, last leaf laid down

H. Legel, booklabel

Goff J65; C 5786; BMC i 233; BSB-Ink I-52; GW M11045

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."

Jacobus de Theramo's Consolation of sinners was a popular text, appearing in many editions in different languages (some illustrated) from its first printing in German in 1464; the Latin text was first printed in Augsburg in 1472. It comprises a law suit between the Devil and Jesus about the redemption of Man, in which Jesus wins but the Devil is allowed to take the damned at the Last Judgement.