Dell'immitatione di Christo Nostro Sig.re Nel Quale Si Raccolgono i Beni Ch'abbiamo in Christo Signor Nostro E Che Si Communico a Quei, Che l'Immitano [The Imitation of Christ, By Francisco Arias, Translated Into Italian] - In 3 Volumes by Arias, Francisco - 1615

Bartolomeo Zannetti. Hardcover. B00LSPSB70 In Italian. 1609, 1611, 1615 Bartolomeo Zannetti, A Spese Medesimo Zannetti, di Agostino Arditi, & Gioseppe Ambrosi (Rome, Italy), three 6 3/4 x 8 1/2 inches tall x 2 inches thick full vellum bound volumes, monastic-lettered titles to spines, (Vol. 1) [30], 664, (Vol. 2) [20], 704, [26], (Vol. 3) [24], 569, [43] pp., complete. The original vellum bindings are characteristically worn and soiled, lacking their original leather ties, with some cracking and separation, but still quite sound. The contents have sporadic minor foxing and age toning. Overall, despite these flaws, a very good copy of this rare, 400-year-old devotional work, with a splendid shelf appearance. Note that this is a heavy and oversized set, so additional postage will be required for international or priority orders. ~AA~ Francisco Arias (1533-1605) was a Spanish Catholic author, known as a writer of ascetical treatises. This is the first edition of the Italian translation of his work, 'The Imitation of Christ,' not to be confused with the better-known Catholic devotional work by Thomas a Kempis (circa 1380-1471). Arias was born in Seville and joined the Society of Jesus at the age of twenty-six. He studied in Alcala and was later professor of scholastic theology at Cordoba, and professor of moral theology at Trigueros. He also served as rector of the colleges at Trigueros and Cadiz. Arias was commonly regarded as a saint, and was known for his gift of prayer and his spirit of penance. He was especially devoted to the care of blacks, Moors, and the inmates of hospitals and prisons. Arias was held in high esteem by John of Avila, and his works are recommended by St. Francis of Sales in his 'Introduction to a Devout Life.' In addition to 'Imitation of Christ,' he authored at least seven other works: Spiritual Profit, Treatise on the Rosary, Imitation of Our Lady, Mental Prayer, The Use of the Sacraments, The Promises of God, The Turpitude and Grievousness of Sin. . Good. 1615. First Edition.