Institutio Christianae Religionis, Johanne Calvino Authore [Institutes of the Christian Religion].

Geneva: Apud Iohannem le Preux, 1592. Rare early printing of Calvin's seminal work on systematic theology and one of the most influential works of Protestant theology. Folio, bound in full contemporary vellum with a burgundy spine label lettered in gilt, elaborate woodcut printer's device to the title page, woodcut headpiece and initial to the first page of text. In near fine condition with ownership inscriptions to the front free endpaper. An exceptional example. One of the most influential works of Protestant theology, John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion was first published in Latin in 1536 (at the same time as Henry VIII of England's Dissolution of the Monasteries) and soon in his native French language in 1541, with the definitive editions appearing in 1559 (Latin) and in 1560 (French). Calvin published the work with the intention of publishing an introductory textbook on the Protestant creed covering a broad range of theological topics from the doctrines of church and sacraments to justification by faith alone and Christian liberty. Throughout the work, Calvin vigorously attacked the religious teachings he considered unorthodox, particularly Roman Catholicism, which he was previously strongly devoted to before his conversion into Protestantism. Institutes in its first form was not merely an exposition of Reformation doctrine; it proved the inspiration to a new form of Christian life for many. It is indebted to Martin Luther in the treatment of faith and sacraments, to Martin Bucer in what is said of divine will and predestination, and to the later scholastics for teaching involving unsuspected implications of freedom in the relation of church and state.