11. BALBUS, Johannes (d.1298). Der Catholicon. Nuremberg: Anton Koberger, 1482. Second volume only. 4to (326 x 233 mm). 296 ff. 69 lines, double column, Gothic type. One opening nineteen-line initial, four fourteen-line initials and numerous four-line initials, in alternating red and blue, many with flourishing into margins. Contemporary blind-stamped pigskin in undulating trellis pattern decorated with a fleur-de-lys motif, two later brass clasps fastened with rosettes. Condition: occasional foxing, slight worming to first few and last leaves and pastedowns, tear to margin on f.5; pigskin lightly soiled, extremities rubbed. Provenance: ink inscriptions to pastedowns.
first edition, an encyclopedic work containing the grammar and dictionary of the Latin language. Hain 2256; Goff B-28.
est. $1000 – $1500