Lipsi, Treatise on Crucifixion, 1597

LIPSIUS, Justin. Justi Lipsi De Cruce Libri Tres ad sacramen profanamque historiam utiles. Una cum notis. Editio tertia, serio castigate. Antwerp. Ex officina Plantiniana. 1597.
 
Slim octavo in original full vellum. Manuscript title on spine. Faded manuscript notations on front board. A few small closed tears at corners and some fading at edges partially affecting one figure. Ex library markings.  A few small chips in the vellum at the bottom of the spine and the bottom edge of the rear board. Clean, bright, and tight throughout.  Measures approximately 71/4 x 41/2 x 5/8 inches. 
 
The third edition of Justin Lipsius’ famous and influential book on crucifixion. Printed on the famous Plantin press. Lipsius created nomenclature for different types of crosses, many of which are demonstrated in the figures of various crucified victims. Other tortures, including biopredation by carnivores as well as conflagration, are also shown. One victim impaled on a pike. This work is referenced by Augustin Calmet in his famous 18th century dictionary of the Bible. 
 
Justus Lipsius (1547 – 1606) was a Flemish and Roman Catholic humanist philosopher. He attempted to reconcile stoicism with Christianity. He published on diverse topics.