Lot 132
  • 132

Luther, Martin

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
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Description

  • Passional Christi und Antichristi. [Wittenberg: Johann Grunenberg, 1521], title within woodcut border, woodcut illustrations, all by Hans Cranach
  • Paper
Verhor unn Acta vor dem Byschoff von Meysszen kegen den Byschoff tzu der Lochaw. [Wittenberg: Nickel Schirlentz, 1522], 6ff., title within woodcut border
[AUGUSTINIAN ORDER] Schlusze der Augustiner Veter yn yhrer versamlung tzu Wittenberg. [Wittenberg: Nickel Schirlentz, 1522], 2ff.

3 works in one volume, 4to (197 x 142mm.), nineteenth-century calf tooled in period style, occasional light staining, upper joint cracked

Literature

Benzing 1014; Fairfax Murray, German 255; VD16 L5584, V782 & A4145

Condition

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."

Catalogue Note

FIRST EDITION of Luther's tract in which he contrasts the behaviour of Christ with that of his present representative on earth, Leo X, Luther's Antichrist. One pair of woodcuts depicts Christ chasing the moneylenders from the Temple juxtaposed with the similarly venal trade in indulgences. The text has been attributed to Philipp Melanchthon.

The second work relates the visitation carried out on behalf of the bishop of Meissen to Lochau (and other reformed parishes) in 1522; a representative of Frederick the Wise attended this to ensure the reforming pastors were protected. The pastor is also called a bishop here, following Luther's opinion that all pastors were the equivalent of bishops. The woodcut border is influenced by Luther's tract, depicting Christ and the Pope at a joust.