Novum Iesu Christi D.N. Testamentum. Paris: Robert Estienne, 1550. 2 parts in 1 vol. *-**8, a-q8, r6, A-M8, N6. Edited by Robert Estienne. In Greek. Woodcut devices on title-pages and final verso, woodcut initials and headpieces, woodcut borders in beginning. Folio (335 x 223 mm). 18th century mottled calf, red morocco spine label. Some marginal dampstain to last few gatherings, mild soiling and a very narrow excision to title-page, 19th century manuscript commentary to final page, rebacked with original spine laid down, corners repaired, a little flaking to upper joint.

The first Greek New Testament to provide variant readings and a systematic reference to the manuscript evidence. Estienne’s edition was of critical influence in England, laying the foundation for the textus receptus. However these variant readings endangered his reputation at the Sorbonne and shortly after publication Estienne and his press removed to Geneva. This Testament is known as the Editio regia because the beautiful Greek font, designed by Claude Garamond, was commissioned and paid for by the king of France. "Si recommandable par la beauté de son éxecution et par son importance littéraire" (Renouard). Dallas Theological Seminary, “Some Rare Bibles,” 2004; Darlow & Moule 4622; Renouard Estienne, p 75; Schreiber 105.
Provenance: William Cuthbert Barron (?) (ownership inscription dated 1847); A.P. Oppé (ownership inscription dated 1897).
See illustration.