(Italian) Manuale Comodo per Li Curati (1725) | Rare Italian Catholic Priest Manual

Manuale Comodo per Li Curati is a rare eighteenth-century Italian Catholic pastoral handbook by Father Master Giambattista Benamati, published in Milan by the heirs of Domenico Bellagatta in 1725.

Created as a practical guide for parish priests, this work provides instructions, prayers and formulas for a wide range of clerical duties, including the administration of sacraments, visiting the sick, blessings of homes and objects, and other elements of pastoral care.

The volume includes sections relating to spiritual protection and rites against evil, including prayers and formulas connected with exorcism. However, it is primarily a comprehensive priestly manual rather than a dedicated exorcism book. It offers valuable insight into eighteenth-century Catholic religious practice, liturgy, and the historical relationship between faith, ritual and beliefs surrounding spiritual affliction.

Published in 1725, this surviving copy represents a fascinating example of an early eighteenth-century working religious text, valued by collectors of Catholic history, liturgical books, religious manuscripts, demonology, and the history of spiritual practices.

Bibliographic Details:

Title: Manuale Comodo per Li Curati

Author: Father Master Giambattista Benamati

Publisher: Presso gli Eredi di Domenico Bellagatta

Place of Publication: Milan, Italy

Year: 1725

Language: Italian

Original Language: Yes

Format: Small octavo (15 × 8.5 cm)

Pages: Approximately 335 pages

Binding: Contemporary full leather binding with raised bands and gilt spine decoration

Condition:

Good antique condition. The original full leather binding remains intact with signs of age and use consistent with an eighteenth-century practical religious volume. The paper shows natural ageing and browning. A solid and complete example of an important historical clerical handbook.

A rare and attractive eighteenth-century Catholic manual documenting the daily practices, rituals and spiritual responsibilities of parish clergy.