Thomas a Kempis, Imitatio Christi [fifth of nine tracts]. Augsburg, Günther Zainer, not after 1472

The Imitatio Christi was written for brothers and novices of the Devotio Moderna or 'Brothers of the Common Life', the spiritual movement initiated by the Dutchman Geert Groote. He advocated a religious life in imitation of Christ for each and everyone, not just for those living within convents. First printed edition; although these nine tracts may be found individually, they were intended to form one volume, as the accompanying printed title-slip shows.

Provenance: Ambroise Firmin-Didot, last important member of the French family of type-founders, printers and publishers.