Extremely Rare 1623 First Edition Manuscript - Procopii Caesariensis V.I. Anekdota. Arcana Historia

Hardcover - All Original Condition - Ex Vatican Library

Title: Procopii Caesariensis V.I. ANEKDOTA. Arcana Historia, Qui est liber nonus Historiarum.
Published by: Nicolaus Alemannus, Ex Bibliotheca Vaticana
Printed in: Lyon, France, 1623
Format: Folio (31 cm), Hardcover, Original Binding
Language: Greek and Latin Text

Historical Significance:

This is the First Edition (Editio Princeps) of the Secret History (Anekdota) by Procopius of Caesarea, published in 1623 and brought to light from the Vatican Library by Nicolaus Alemannus. Procopius’s Secret History is a critical and scathing critique of the private lives of Emperor Justinian, Empress Theodora, and their court, detailing the scandals, corruption, and intrigue of the Byzantine Empire during the 6th century.

This edition was the first time Procopius’s suppressed work was made available to the public, centuries after it had been hidden in the Vatican Library. Nicolaus Alemannus, a Vatican librarian and scholar, painstakingly translated the Greek text into Latin and added extensive annotations, providing invaluable insights into the text’s meaning and historical context.

This 1623 edition is a highly sought-after item for collectors of rare books, historians, and anyone with a deep interest in the Byzantine Empire or ancient history.

Condition:

• Binding:
  The book maintains its original 17th-century calf binding, complete with raised bands on the spine and original spine labels. The book has not undergone any restoration work and is preserved in its completely original condition. It is the best example we have seen in such remarkable and untouched condition.
• Interior Pages:
  The folio’s pages are in good condition, with only minor toning and scattered foxing. The title page is beautifully printed in red and black, adorned with an engraved solar vignette, and decorated with woodcut initials and head-and-tail pieces. The text itself is printed in both Greek and Latin.
• Illustrations:
  The book contains several engraved illustrations and medallions. There is light dampstaining and marginal worming between pages C1-H2 and e4-m2, but the text remains highly legible, and these defects are typical for a book of this age and rarity.

Key Features:

• First Edition: This is the editio princeps, the first-ever published edition of Procopius’s Secret History, released in 1623.
• Provenance: This copy comes from the Vatican Library, where it was discovered and published by Nicolaus Alemannus.
• Original Binding: The book is in its original 17th-century binding, without any restoration, a rare and highly desirable feature.
• Greek and Latin Text: The work is presented in both Greek (the original language) and Latin (translated by Alemannus), offering a bilingual experience for scholars and collectors.

About the Work:

Procopius of Caesarea (c. 500–c. 554 AD) is considered one of the greatest historians of the ancient world. He was the official chronicler of the reign of Emperor Justinian and is best known for his Wars of Justinian. However, the Secret History (Anekdota) reveals a shocking and often vitriolic account of Justinian, Empress Theodora, and the Byzantine court. The work offers a detailed portrayal of the scandals, intrigues, and ruthless actions of the emperor and his closest allies, contrasting sharply with Procopius’s more official accounts.

It is believed that Procopius wrote this text in secrecy, intending for it to be read only after his death due to its inflammatory content. The Secret History covers many of the same years as his earlier works but provides a completely different perspective, making it one of the most important and controversial works of late antiquity.

Edition and Publication History:

• Printed in 1623 by Jean Jullieron for André Brugiotti in Lyon, France.
• This edition is considered an extremely rare and invaluable artifact, especially given its Vatican Libraryprovenance and the historical importance of the work.
• Scholarly References:
• Graesse V, 455
• Brunet IV, 897
• Hoffmann III, 298

Additional Details:

• Publisher: Lugduni: Sumpt. Andreae Brugiotti Bibliopolae Romani, 1623.
• Volumes: 2 volumes in 1. [12], xxiii, 135, 142, [17] pages, illustrated.
• Dimensions: Folio, 31 cm.
• Provenance Stamp: The book bears a provenance stamp linking it to the Vatican Library, marking it as an authenticated copy.

Condition Summary:

• Binding: Original contemporary calf, completely untouched, and never restored. All parts of the book, including the spine, are in their original condition.
• Pages: Minor toning, scattered foxing, and light dampstaining. Marginal worming from C1-H2 and e4-m2. Illustrations in good condition. The text remains highly legible and well-preserved for its age.
• Overall Condition: Excellent, especially considering the book’s age. It is an unrestored example in exceptional original condition, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors.

Why You Should Consider This Book:

This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a piece of world history, especially one that has been preserved in completely original condition. The historical importance of Procopius’s Secret History cannot be overstated, as it provides a rare insider's look into the Byzantine Empire, one of the world’s most influential and enigmatic civilizations.

For collectors of rare books, Byzantine history, or those seeking to invest in rare manuscripts, this is an unmissable chance to own a truly extraordinary piece of history.

Pricing:

Due to its extreme rarity, historical significance, and pristine original condition, serious offers are invited. Please contact for further details and photographs.

Shipping & Handling:

• Shipping Method: Insured, professional-grade packaging to ensure safe transit.
• International Shipping Available: Will ship globally with full insurance.
• Returns: Due to the value and rarity of this item, all sales are final.