Iohannis Cassiani Libri XII. Quorum IIII. Priores Sunt de coenobiorum institutis, VIII. vero posteriores de VIII. vitiis capitalibus. Necnon Collationum XXIIII. Sanctorum Patrum Libri Duo, clarius Paraphrastice a D. Dionysio Carthusiano. - Iohannis Cassian [John Cassian] (c. AD 360 – c. 435) / Dionysius de Carthusia [Dionysius the Carthusian] (1402–1471), editor Coloniae [Cologne]: Melchioris Nouesiani, 1540. [22], CXCIX, [1] leaves. 30.5cm x 20cm. Contemporary full vellum binding with hand-lettered spine, and hand lettered bottom edge. Early edition of this theological work by John Cassian. The first four books deal with the rules and life in monasteries (de coenobiorum institutis) and the following eight books are dedicated to the eight principal vices (de VIII vitiis capitalibus), which were later condensed into the seven deadly sins. Comes with an engraved title vignette and several engraved initials throughout. Rubbing, bumping, wear, and some soiling to the boards and spine. Cockling on the front and back endpapers, which are both also a bit damaged, exposing the vellum and part of the spine underneath. There is a tear at the bottom of the title page, not affecting the content. Pen markings in the back pastedown endpaper. Browning and spotting throughout, as usual. The text and illustrations are clear, and the binding is solid. Overall, and considering its age, a copy in good+ condition.