BESSARION, Cardinal. In calumniatorem Platonis libri quatuor [and other texts]. [8], 112 leaves. Folio, 324x215 mm, contemporary limp vellum with external lacing on spine, thong ties lacking; minor stains and soiling on title, 2 small wormholes affecting a few letters on verso, insignificant marginal dampstaining at beginning and end, occasional early underscoring and marginalia. (Venice: House of Aldus, July 1503)
first aldine edition of the chief work by the Greek émigré scholar and religious leader (1403-72), originally published in 1469, defending Platonism and its compatibility with Christianity in response to an attack by the Aristotelian George of Trebizond. Renouard, page 40(5); New UCLA 75; see lot 55.
