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Antwerp: Officina Plantiniana [Moretus], 1596. Folio, [14], 704 pp., [32 pp. Index]. Collation: a8, A-Z6, Aa-Qq6, Rr5, Ss-Zz6, Aaa-Mmm6, Nnn4, a-e6, f2. Collation agrees with Adams (B-238), with two exceptions. Adams does not note the lack of Rr6, although the continuity of text and page numbering strongly suggests that this leaf was never issued. Also, in the last gathering, where Adams calls for 4 leaves (f4), this copy has only two (f2), concluding with the last page of the Index. Comparing this volume to others in the Plantin printing of Baronius, it seems nearly certain that the missing leaves were the colophon (f3) and a blank (f4). Bound in full contemporary vellum over wooden boards. Boards once held closed with metal clasps, mostly removed but with some of the mounting hardware remaining. Spine with raised bands, in six compartments. Two spine labels, each gilt-decorated. Front and rear boards elaborately ruled and decorated in blind, including ecclesiastical arms (one panel dated 1590) and decorative borders. Vellum moderately darkened, some wear and scuffing at edges. Corners renewed at some point with plain cloth. Endpapers have been reinforced in places. Small library stamp (cancelled) on verso of title. Overall, an extremely sturdy and very presentable copy. The first Plantin edition of this volume of Baronius, printed by Christopher Plantin's successor, Moretus. Seller Inventory # S23655
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