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Rare Early Printed Religious Text, 1491, from Johann Amerbach [201587]

Currency:USD Category:Books / Antiquarian & Collectible Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:500.00 - 1,000.00 USD
Rare Early Printed Religious Text, 1491, from Johann Amerbach [201587]
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An extremely rare piece: this framed page, containing a commentary on the Psalms by Roman statesman and scholar Cassiodorus, was printed in 1491 by Johann Amerbach of Basel, Switzerland. The page originates from an unknown incunabulum (extremely early book, printed before 1501). Its Latin text is printed in a blackletter/gothic typeface, a standard typeface for the time period, with the Roman numerals at top printed in Roman Serif. Small typed notes are included in the margins of the page, and certain marks have been added by hand in red. An informational label mounted on the glass reads "EXPOSITO PSALTERII (Cassidorus) [sic] / Printed by Johann Amerbach, Basel, 1491".
Amerbach was well known in his time as a prominent printer and artist, and remains an important figure in the early history of printing. He was considered Basel's most important printer, with his books distributed to both Strasbourg and Paris, and mostly printed theological texts such as this piece. He was known for his early adoption of new typefaces; he was the first to print a book in the Antique typeface, and the first printer in Basel to use Roman type, which appears at the top of the page.
Cassiodorus, the Roman statesman whose text is reproduced here, lived c. 485-585 AD. He was a biblical scholar, known for founding a monastery and championing the reproduction and preservation of manuscripts. He made significant efforts to preserve both Christian and Classical literature throughout the Middle Ages.
Page is in excellent condition for its age, with light foxing/toning and no visible damage. Wooden frame has some damage at corners; see photo. A phenomenal and exceedingly rare piece of history. 14"x16.25"x1.75".
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Date:
Country (if not USA): Switzerland
State:
City: Basel
Provenance: