ALIXANDRO OF GNANO

1505 - 500+ YEAR OLD HANDWRITTEN MANUSCRIPT JOURNAL, LEDGER AND DIARY OF A WEALTHY BUSINESS MAN OF GENOA

      GENOA, ITALY, 1505. One hundred and eighty four hand numbered pages in this remarkable, 501 year old, handwritten manuscript ledger, journal and diary : " 1505 Gendenze di Saviz - gnano" as stated on the cover. The first page begins: "Libro de tuto _____ quale so tato asan__giano ala venuta mia. [T]o Alexandro salueto schrise e soto schrise de mia gnovia mar...." Not written by a scribe, this is a working journal and ledger containing hundreds of business entries, purchases, loans and repayments. There are long lists of foods and prices for what is assuredly shopping lists for parties and feasts. There are also what appears to be observations and business maxims and poetry in a number of entries. Certainly this fascinating book requires more research. The original vellum cover is in somewhat rough shape with tears, rubbing and bumping and is barely attached to the text block though still held by the rear binding cords. Interior is in excellent shape save for the odd and to be expected ink blot, age-toning and light soiling. Please email for pictures of this rare manuscript.. Original Vellum. Good+/None. 4to - over 9!" - 12" tall. Italian, Spanish, Latin.