Busti, Bernardinus de

4to (205 x 150mm.), 68 leaves (of 74), a-h⁸ i-k⁶, double column, 46 lines, gothic type, one woodcut initial, small woodcut of the Entombment at start of text, contemporary (?Parisian) panel-stamped calf, on upper cover the four saints Mark, John, Peter and Paul with an armorial at foot ("GP"?), on the lower cover a panel containing two sections of crested thistles with lettered banners in between and an outer leafy border, paper label on spine, lacking final quire k⁶, some dampstaining to lower corner of last quire, binding somewhat rubbed, some worming to binding affecting stamps, lacking two pairs of alum-tawed ties, spine slightly defective

Two early inscriptions on title-page, one dated 1535; from a Dominican library, inscription at head of first leaf of table; Jaco Calleri of Graja [Graglia], ink stamp on inside front cover

Goff B1332; HCR 1467; BMC vi 771; BSB-Ink B1065; GW 5802; Sander 1477

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 Busti's tract defending the legitimacy of loans at low interest as practised by the Monti di Pietà, instituted by the Church in the fifteenth century in an attempt to counter usury.