Incunabula 1491-1495 Poor Man’s Bible Latin leaf EZRA 1 printed by Johannes Froben
$199.99
The Poor Man’s Bible’s nickname came from the small format – median octavo (6 3/16 x 4 5/16 inches; 157×110 mm). Despite the relatively small size, the Bible exhibits the best craftsmanship of its time. It was printed in a new architectural design “rotunda,” that allowed Johannes Froben to produce printed pages of great clarity and neatness despite its small size.
This leaf is easily readable, and would look beautiful framed or on display.
Printed 1491-1495 in Basel by Johannes Froben.
Size: Approx. 6 3/16 x 4 5/16 inches. Small format – Median Octavo
Condition: Good, Evidence of ageing: light soiling, browning.
Please see all photos for condition before purchasing.
See below for more information:
The Poor Man’s Bible’s nickname came from the small format – median octavo (6 3/16 x 4 5/16 inches; 157×110 mm). Despite the relatively small size, the Bible exhibits the best craftsmanship of its time. It was printed in a new architectural design “rotunda,” that allowed Johannes Froben to produce printed pages of great clarity and neatness despite its small size.
Johann Froben, a Swiss printer, printed the first pocket-sized octavo Latin Bible at Basel in 1491, the so-called “Poor man’s Bible.” He completed the second edition in this small format in 1495. Convenient to carry and easily affordable, this edition combined several user-friendly features that Froben advertised on his title page: marginal chapter divisions and references, a subject index, and tabular summary of the books and their contents.
“The “Poor Man’s Bible” today is quite scarce. The last known first edition appeared at an auction was on December 15, 1986, during an event held at Sotheby’s. Current pricing for the only first edition available for sale is $26,200. The second edition which was printed four years later on Oct. 27, 1495 and is equally scarce, is also selling for around $25,000. Not bad for a small octavo that was intended to appeal to the common church goers and ultimately be called “The poor man’s Bible. “” – article from Rare Books Digest.
This leaf is easily readable, and would look beautiful framed or on display.
Printed 1491-1495 in Basel by Johannes Froben.
Size: Approx. 6 3/16 x 4 5/16 inches. Small format – Median Octavo
Condition: Good, Evidence of ageing: light soiling, browning.
Please see all photos for condition before purchasing.
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| Weight | 1.1 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12 × 10 × 1 in |
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| Grade | Short definition | Key signs to look for | Typical use / value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine (F) | Virtually as issued; near‑new for its age. | Tight, original binding; clean, unmarked pages; original leather or cloth intact; minimal shelf wear. | Collector quality; commands the highest premium. |
| Very Good (VG) | Light signs of use but well cared for. | Minor rubbing at edges; small scuffs; sound binding; complete text and plates/maps present. | Collectible; desirable but lower premium than Fine. |
| Good (G) | Clearly used; moderate wear and handling signs. | Fading or spine rubbing; light foxing or inscriptions; small tears; structurally sound. | Solid reading copy; modest market value. |
| Fair | Worn but generally complete text block. | Heavy wear to boards; loose hinges; missing endpapers or half‑title; soiling or repairs needed. | Low value; suitable for restoration or rebinding. |
| Poor / Reading Copy | Heavily damaged; often only the text remains usable. | Detached covers; missing pages; severe water/mold damage; heavy foxing or staining. | Reference or restoration only; minimal market value unless content is exceptionally rare. |
Note: Binding condition (original, rebacked, or binding copy) and presence of plates, maps, or family registers significantly affect value. Please look at all photos and read the entire description when evaluating a listing.
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