Johann Arndt was a German theologian who is now recognized as a forerunner of "pietism," a popular 17th-century Lutheran movement. This intricate, ornamental binding was originally designed to house the 1697 edition of Arndt's best-known work, Paradiesgä rtlein. Original Art: Binding of Johann Arndt's Paradiesgä rtlein. Era: 1697. Region: Strasbourg, France.