Anonimo - Spiegazione della Bolla della S. Crociata (Pio VI / Ferdinando IV) + rame fuori testo a piena pagina - 1778

Rare and important eighteenth-century volume printed in Naples in 1778 at the renowned Stamperia Raimondiniana. The work contains the detailed theological, legal, and administrative explanation of the Bull of the Holy Crusade (Catholicae Ecclesiae) issued by the reigning Pontiff Pius VI. The bull was sent to and applied to the Kingdom of Naples at the explicit request of His Majesty King Ferdinand IV of Bourbon.

Illustrations & Special Features:
The volume is enriched by a splendid full-page copper plate engraving, finely etched, which precedes the start of the treatise. The copper engraving is accompanied by its explanatory text page entitled "Spiegazione del Rame". The illustration depicts King Ferdinand IV on his throne surrounded by the Cardinal and Theological Virtues (Wisdom, Faith, Justice, Piety), while receiving the Holy Crusade Bull radiated by a beam of divine light emanating from the Papal Coat of Arms of Pius VI. The iconography also celebrates the benefits of the bull in redeeming Christians enslaved by Barbary pirates and the strengthening of the Royal Navy.

Bibliographical Details:
Place and Year of Printing: Naples, at Stamperia Raimondiniana, 1778 (MDCCLXXVIII).
Paper: Solid eighteenth-century laid paper with deckle edges.
Pagg.: 2+379+18+2

Condition Report:
The volume is in good overall condition. The text and the copper engraving are well-impressed, with crisp ink and generous margins. Usual age-related foxing and browning on the sheets, which do not preclude reading nor the beauty of the illustrative portion. (Please review the photographic set carefully).