Biblia Latina with the Glossa Ordinaria — First Edition, Strassburg, c. 1480 — Illuminated Incunable Fragment

Biblia Latina with the Glossa Ordinaria
Strassburg: Adolf Rusch for Anton Koberger, not after 1480

An important incunable fragment from the first edition of the Latin Bible printed with the Glossa Ordinaria, the principal biblical commentary used throughout the Middle Ages. This monumental edition, among the largest Bibles produced during the incunable period, was printed at Strassburg by Adolf Rusch for the celebrated Nuremberg publisher Anton Koberger.

The present volume is a substantial fragment containing Ecclesiastes, the Song of Songs, the Wisdom of Solomon, and Ecclesiasticus (Sirach), comprising 52 leaves (104 pages).

The text is surrounded by the Glossa Ordinaria, traditionally attributed to Walafrid Strabo, together with the interlinear glosses associated with Anselm of Laon. The pages retain extensive red and blue rubrication, and the opening of the Song of Songs is distinguished by an illuminated initial.

The edition is generally dated no later than 1480, based on contemporary ownership inscriptions dated 1480 found in surviving copies.

Bound in modern wooden boards with a blind-tooled calf spine and brass studs.

Dimensions: 18¼ × 12¾ in. (46.4 × 32.4 cm)
Collation: 52 leaves / 104 pages
Printing: Strassburg, Adolf Rusch for Anton Koberger, not after 1480

Condition:
Very Good overall. Minor worming, primarily consisting of small pinholes near the lower portions of the leaves, largely marginal but occasionally extending into the lower text area. Some light finger-soiling and occasional faint, old water staining to the margins. One corner has a small chip without loss of text, and another has a short closed tear. Light foxing in places. Rubrication remains attractive throughout.

References: Goff B607; HC 3173*; Bod-inc B-314; Pr 299; BMC I 92; BSB-Ink B-442; GW 4282.