This is an exceptionally rare early 16th-century edition of Thielmann Kerver’s Roman Missal, which contains the texts and rubrics necessary for celebrating Mass in the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church throughout the year. Notably, there is only one other recorded surviving copy in existence.
The Missal is printed in a Gothic font, utilizing both red and black ink throughout the text. It features several in-text woodcuts, some of which measure a quarter page, alongside one half-page woodcut. Additionally, it includes musical notation and various handwritten inscriptions.
Many of the woodcut designs draw inspiration from the illustrated Books of Hours produced by Kerver and earlier works.
Please note that Leaf C4 is missing; however, it has been replaced with a printed leaf on vellum that showcases a beautifully illuminated historiated initial of God the Father (measuring 5 x 5 cm), meticulously created by hand.
The final leaf bears an ownership inscription from one Philippus Probus Possesor. This volume has been rebacked and equipped with new endpapers.
According to USTC and Worldcat, only one copy of this edition exists in libraries.
It is a finely bound folio volume, consisting of (8)+LXXXII+(105 of 106)+74 leaves.
The volume is in very good condition, showing some rubbing and wear to the binding, particularly at the hinges. There is minor soiling and foxing throughout. The spine has a stain from spilt water. Hinges are strong without any cracking Overall a well preserved copy with very clean pages.
