[ORDER OF MALTA]. History, statutes and ordinances of the Sacred Hieronymite Order. [Rome?, second half of the 17th century]. Fascinating manuscript tracing the history, statutes, and institutional structure of the Order of Malta, beginning in 1048, when, according to tradition, the Hospitaller institution was founded in Jerusalem by concession of the Caliph of Egypt, and continuing through to the early seventeenth century. The text reaches at least beyond 1637, as indicated by a marginal note bearing that date. 4to (200 x 145mm). 238 pages, manuscript written in brown ink in a fine, consistent hand. Bound in contemporary vellum, borders rolled in gilt to a floriate design, small central gilt-stamped oval emblem depicting a stag's head. (1)