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[4], 132 [i.e. 123], leaves. *4, A-2H4 (lacking final blank, 2H4; *4, a blank, misbound following *1). Engraved title vignette; text in italics. (4to) 20.2x14.5 cm. (8x5½"), 18th or 19th century leather-backed marbled boards, spine lettered in gilt. First edition of the text.

Syrianus' major surviving work, a commentary on the Metaphysics of Aristotle by the 5th century Greek Neoplatonist philosopher. Syrianus, a native of Alexandria, became the head of the revived version of Plato's Academy in Athens, succeeding his teacher Plutarch of Athens in 431/432. He is important as the teacher of Proclus, and, like Plutarch and Proclus, as a commentator on Plato and Aristotle. The present edition was printed by the sons of Paulus Manucius, using the Aldine type. Adam S2220; Renouard 272:13; BM STC Italian 653; Aldine Press, Catalogue of the Aldine Collection, UCLA, 560. Formerly in the University of Chicago Library, with bookplate, blindstamp on title-page, withdrawn rubberstamp on its verso, number on following blank. Old label of Italian bookseller on front pastedown. Very rare.