Bernhardum Waldschmidt (1 results)

Printed in 1659, this substantial Protestant devotional work takes the biblical Book of Ruth and expands it into sixty-two sermons, reflecting the theological depth and pastoral culture of 17th-century Germany. Works such as this were not casual reading?they were designed to instruct, guide, and shape moral life across all levels of society. The emphasis on Ruth, a figure of loyalty, faith, and redemption, made it especially resonant in post-Reformation Europe, where scripture was increasingly interpreted for direct application to everyday life. Bibliography; Stuttgart: Johann Weyrich Rößlin, for Thomas Matthiae Götzens (bookseller in Frankfurt), 1659. Quarto. Title printed in red and black, with decorative initials. Text in German. Condition; Contemporary calf binding, heavily worn and rubbed with significant loss to spine and corners. Boards detached or near-detached, with visible structural weakness. Surface abrasion and mottling throughout. Internally, title page remains strong and legible with attractive red-and-black printing; some toning and light soiling as expected. A working copy with clear age and use, but retaining strong visual and historical presence. Why It Matters; This is a classic example of mid-17th century Lutheran sermon literature?books that were central to religious life rather than peripheral to it. The scale (sixty-two sermons) reflects not only theological commitment but also the demand for structured, repeated engagement with scripture. Surviving copies are often heavily used, making intact examples?however worn?valuable witnesses to real historical readership rather than purely decorative survival. Offered by Atlas Rare Books, specialists in rare and antiquarian books.