Johannes Oporinus's copy (?) of a 1526 Macrobius

1526. [Early Printing]. Macrobius. IN SOMNIUM SCIPIONIS LIBRI DUO et Septem Eiusdem Satumaliorum. Nunc denuo recogniti & multis in locis aucti. Coloniae: Apud Eucharium Ceruicomum, 1526. Folio. (6),140 leaves. Handome copy in 18th/early 19th century vellum, which reused a medieval manuscript. Internally, some toning and some small worming to text., edges died blue , blanks old but replaced. From the esteemed library of Georgius Klok with bookplate. PROVENANCE : signature of Oporinus in a 16th century hand to lower title page.

With woodcut diagrams and WORLD MAP in the text. Marcrobius is now little known apart from the present collection of works, which includes his famous cosmographical commentary on Cicero's Somnium Scipionis (Scipio's Dream). First published in 1472, the works enjoyed wide popularity well into the sixteenth century. The handsome title page illustration can be attributed to Hans Holbein, who crafted a title page with a three-dimensional, ornamental style that included an image of Cleopatra engaging in suicide by snake, possibly an Egyptian asp.


The title "Acrobius. IN SOMNIUM SCIPIONIS LIBRI DUO et Septem Eiusdem Satumaliorum" refers to works by the ancient Roman scholar Macrobius, focusing on two major texts. "In Somnium Scipionis," or "The Dream of Scipio," is a fascinating philosophical exploration based on Cicero's work, delving into themes of cosmic and individual destiny, and the nature of the soul. It was widely read and revered in the Middle Ages and Renaissance for its rich insights into Neoplatonism. The second part, "Saturnalia," consists of seven books that discuss a wide range of topics, presented in the form of dialogues held during the Saturnalia festival, an ancient Roman feast. This work serves as a comprehensive compilation of Roman social and cultural customs, philosophical thoughts, and literary criticism, providing a snapshot of intellectual life in late antiquity.

Very possibly the copy of Johannes Oporinus, who holds a significant place in the history of printing and intellectual discourse due to his daring role in the dissemination of radical and groundbreaking texts during the Renaissance. As a printer in Basel, Oporinus not only facilitated the spread of scientific knowledge through the publication of Andreas Vesalius' seminal work on human anatomy, "De humani corporis fabrica," but also engaged in the religious and philosophical debates of his time by printing texts from reformers like John Calvin. His courageous decision to print the first Latin translation of the Quran introduced European scholars to Islamic religious texts, broadening the scope of religious and cultural understanding. Oporinus' work exemplifies the pivotal role of printers in the Renaissance as agents of change, challenging established norms and expanding the boundaries of knowledge. His contributions helped pave the way for modern scientific inquiry and religious tolerance, making his imprint on history both indelible and profound.