Aldrovandi
Monstrorum historia. Cum paralipomensis Large Folio Wunderkamer Dragons, Werewolfs
Bologna: Typis Nicolai Tebaldini, 1642-1657- 1658: 1642
- $13,958
ALDROVANDI, Ulisse (1522-1605). Monstrorum historia. Cum paralipomensis historiae omnium animalium. Bartholomaeus Ambrosinus . volumen composuit, edited by Marco Antonio Bernia. Bologna: Typis Nicolai Tebaldini, 1642-1657- 1658, 2 parts, including supplement, bound in one volume [title of second part dated 1657 and colophon of second part dated 1658], folio (33 x 22.5 cm). 748 p 157 p. Engraved architectural title, dated 1642, by Giovanni Battista Coriolano, incorporating a portrait of the dedicatee Ferdinando de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, c. 450 woodcut illustrations, many near full-page, initials and ornaments (engraved title cropped, some browning and spotting) but an attractive copy. Late 18th half calf, spine with red and green morocco lettering pieces gilt (worn and repaired, later end papers). Ulisse Aldrovandi, (1522, Bologna, Bologna - 1605, Bologna) was Renaissance naturalist and physician. Aldrovandi amassed, a Wunderkammer, an extraordinary cabinet of curiosities, intended to be a representation of the diversity of the natural world. His collection grew to contain more than 7,000 89 17TH CENTURY specimens and another several thousand herbarium and plant specimens. When Aldrovandi died in 1605, he left his vast collection to the Senate of Bologna, and many of his unpublished works were published for the first time many years after his death. This work the Monstrorum Historia, a visually stunning book on the history of monsters is the most famous. There is a commentary on the unusual human beings of myth and reality. The cyclops, satyr, mermen and centaurs of Greek mythology are adjacent to portraits of a family with Werewolf Syndrome. Giants and dwarves and a visual catalogue of non-European peoples of the world occupy other pages. But Aldrovandi tells us also about fantastical beasts and even monstrous plants. The second part deals with things not yet described like the giraffe, the unicorn, the angler
More from Konstantinopel Antiquarian Booksellers
Biblia sirech knigi vetkhago i novago saveta BIBLE
FIRST SLAVONIC BIBLE - A FEAT ON PAR WITH THE KING JAMES BIBLE AND LUTHER'S TRANSLATION [BIBLE, SLAVONIC] Biblia sirech knigi vetkhago i novago saveta. [Ostrog: Ivan Federov, 12 August] 1581. Folio (289 x 190mm). 628 lvs, but completed in manuscript with the title page and 9 lvs. index supplied in old expertly done manuscript (circa late 18th -early 19th century) with hand drawn arms of Konstantin Ostrozhkii on title verso, and Federov's hand drawn engraved device in colophon .Internally, title defective with small hole repaired. Handsome embossed early binding, evidence of clasps, hinges repaired with old strengthening on inner binding. Provenance: 1828 inscription to verso of last blank; Robert Pierpont Blake (1886 1950), renowned Byzantinist and scholar of the Armenian and Georgian cultures. Overall, a handsome copy Cyrillic Books 35; Darlow & Moule 8370 The first Slavonic Bible represents a monumental achievement in the cultural and linguistic history of the Slavic peoples, analogous to the transformative impact of the Luther Bible for German-speaking populations. This pioneering work was the product of Ivan Fedorov, a foundational =>gure in Russian publishing, who embarked on this endeavour under the patronage of Prince Konstantin of Ostrog. Prince Konstantin had secured a version of the Gennadius manuscript Bible, a signi=>cant text in its own right. In pursuit of this project, Prince Konstantin amassed an extensive collection of Greek and Slavonic manuscripts, as well as printed works. This library became the bedrock for Fedorov's translation eBforts. With meticulous care, Fedorov and his team scrutinized the Slavonic text against its Greek counterparts and, where available, Latin versions. This comparative study ensured that the translation was not only accurate but also resonant with contemporary linguistic usage. Archaic or ambiguous terms were replaced with modern equivalents, ensuring clarity and comprehensibility. In addition, any discrepancies or errors identi=>ed during this rigorous vetting process were recti=>ed. The signi=>cance of this =>rst Slavonic Bible cannot be overstated. It served as a standardizing force for the Slavic language, much as the King James Version did for English. Moreover, it played a pivotal role in religious and cultural spheres by making the sacred texts more accessible to the wider Slavic populace. The meticulous efforts of Fedorov, under the visionary leadership of Prince Konstantin, culminated in a work that was not just a religious tome but also a cornerstone of Slavic identity and heritage, as noted by bibliographic scholars Darlow & Moule. Please look at our new catalogue www.konstantinopel.nl- $22,333
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13th ARMENIAN MANUSCRIPT ommentary on the Seven Catholic Epistles
SHNORHALI, Sargis SHNORHALI, Sargis. MANUSCRIPT on paper. (c. 1100-67) Commentary on the Seven Catholic Epistles (s.l. s.d., but 13th century and almost certainly Cilician capital, Sis) Royal Folio; (46 x 31 cm.) Early (likely contemporary) boards and calf with loss to half spine. 419 leaves, First leaf with incipit with half loss, first 10 leaves loose and frayed, last leaf frayed with partial loss. P. 89/90 likely a later substitution. With several attractive decorative elements and embellishments, like an evangelist, a snake and a lion. PROVENANCE: Robert Pierpont Blake (1886-1950), American Byzantinist and scholar of the Armenian and Georgian cultures. Included with the lot are photocopies of Blake's typed journal documenting the provenance. Old 'on deposit' to Harvard College bookplate to inner board, with pencil inscription of July 29. 1920 documenting Harvard College Library loan to first leaf. Sargis Shnorhali, also known as Grigor Suni (c. 1100-67), was an Armenian cleric and writer who made significant contributions to medieval Armenian literature and theology. Among his works, the Commentary on the Seven Catholic Epistles is notable for its theological depth and insight into early Christian texts. The Seven Catholic Epistles are a collection of letters in the New Testament addressed to the Christian community at large, rather than to specific individuals or congregations. They include the Epistles of James; 1 and 2 Peter; 1, 2, and 3 John; and Jude. Sargis Shnorhali's commentary on these epistles would have been a scholarly endeavor aiming to elucidate the theological and moral teachings contained within these texts. Commentaries like his were invaluable for the clergy and the faithful alike, providing insights into the interpretation of Scripture and guiding the faithful in their understanding of Christian doctrine and ethics. In the context of Armenian Christianity, Shnorhali's works are particularly significant. The Armenian Church has a rich theological and literary tradition, and figures like Shnorhali contributed to its development by engaging deeply with the biblical text and the patristic tradition. His writings not only reflect the theological concerns of his time but also serve as a bridge between the ancient Christian traditions and the medieval Armenian spiritual and intellectual milieu. The manuscript was almost certainly produced in the Cilician capital, Sis (now Kozan in modern-day Turkey). The Kingdom of Cilicia, also known as the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia, was an independent Armenian state that existed from 1198 to 1375, situated along the Mediterranean coast in the region that is present-day southeastern Turkey. During its existence, Sis served as the royal capital of this Armenian kingdom and was an important centre of Armenian culture and politics, especially during the time of the Crusades when the kingdom served as an ally to Western European powers. Blake's lengthy journal records the story of the manuscript's acquisition: The narrative revolves around a significant collection of manuscripts, including this 13th-century Armenian manuscript which Blake received as commission ( his wife Nadia preferred it over an engagement ring) Amid the chaotic backdrop of post-war Armenia in 1920, the Armenian community had prudently evacuated all manuscripts from regions under the threat of occupation by the Russian army in Turkey, ensuring their preservation. As political instability increased and the Bolsheviks' control seemed imminent, the author, leveraging his connections and the interest of the British parties, communicated with Lord Curzon and other influential figures to facilitate the sale of a collection of 600 manuscripts. The British School of Oriental Studies was a potential buyer, but due to consular Wardrop's health issues after an operation, the negotiation was left incomplete and concluded by Henry Luke, ex-Vice governor of Cyprus. This move secured the manuscripts for various parties including some for Harvard College Library, where Blake was later appointed a professor. The efforts and sale successfully safeguarded these cultural treasures from the volatile political climate and potential destruction or loss during the tumultuous period following World War I. As a commission for his scholarship and work, Luke presented Blake with this manuscript which he lent to Harvard in the 1920s, but later reclaimed and kept as one of his most prized possessions. Texts like this hardly ever appear on the market. No trace of any significant Armenian manuscript found in the auction records, save an Armenian Bible MS from the 15th century that made 378.000 GBP at Sothebys.- $263,528
- $263,528
Ottoman Empire Turkish wars Floro histórico de la guerra movida por el Sultán de los Turcos.
FABRO BREMUNDAN, Francisco. Floro histórico de laguerra movida por el Sultán de los Turcos. 1683. Madrid. Por Sebastian de Armendariz. Engraved title page. 1-352. Contemporary limp vellum. Please note, this copy has 352 pages. This book is although with ongoing pagination, a series of detailed accounts or noticias on the Turkish Wars, from 31,.October 1689 to 19 December 1690 during the Great Turkish War, a series of conflictsbetween the Ottoman Empire and the Holy League consisting of the Holy Roman Empire, Poland- Lithuania, Venice, Russia, and the Kingdom of Hungary. There is one other like wise book in the trade, but with 63 pages only- $837
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TUDOR LADY GREY’S SPIRITUAL LETTERS A book forbidden to print in england Tudor – Historia de la Vita e de la Morte de l’illustriss. Signora Giovanna Graia,
Florio Nella quale secondo le Divine Scritture si tratta dei principati articoli della Religione Christiana. Con l'aggiunta d'una dottissima disputa Theologica fatta in Ossonia, l'anno 1554. Printed at Middleburgh by Richard Schilders, i.e., Richardo Pittore, 1607. Small 8vo, original vellum, yapp edges, spine title in old manuscript; internally, some toning but a handsome copy. 15 x 9 cm. [8], 378 [i.e., 322, 30] pages. Complete. The author was an Italian Anglican pastor. Due to the Catholic restoration of Mary Tudor (1553-58) he was forced to flee, settling in Grisons, in Soglio, where he was a pastor and died around 1566-67. During his English stay he entered the circle of Lord Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, and was Lady Jane Grey's Italian teacher. This book is an autobiography of the unfortunate nine-day queen. In the Elizabethan period, Middelburg was a center for the Puritan cause, and the production of books unprintable in England often fell to the Dutch workshop of Richard Schilders in Middelburg. When Jane penned her letters, she likely didn't anticipate a wide audience. Yet, amid Mary Tudor's revival of Catholicism and her crackdown on Protestants, Jane's writings resonated with printers and the reading public. As a result, she became the first woman in England to have her spiritual letters published.- $2,792
- $2,792
Livre des Heures Horae Studenbuch Book of Hours
Book of Hours AN EXCEPTIONAL MANUSCRIPT THAT COMBINES POETRY, MYSTICISM AND ALLEGORY. A richly illuminated Parisian Book of Hours from the end of the 15th century with illuminated borders or architectural frames on every page. (18.5 x 11.5 cm). Red 18th century morocco binding. Some thumbing, cockling and occasional losses of pigment, else in very good condition. 138 leaves, calendar miniatures with signs of the Zodiac and occupations of the month, and 21 full page miniatures and 16 small ones. $ 125,000.- An exceptional manuscript that combines poetry, mysticism and allegory. This manuscript is a rediscovery, previously kept in a German private collection. Research has not identified the patron, who is proudly depicted in her red dress on folio 124v. She was, in any case, sensitive to the mystical bestiary and to forest life, which includes dragonflies, birds, boars, rabbits and monkeys. The depiction of the Tree of Life surrounded by innocent-looking bunnies and an owl is a depiction that might be unknown thus far. We yet, need to find a single miniature in the literature. There is something moving in this imagery. As the Book of Hours begins with Adam and Eve standing next to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and the expulsion from paradise, it ends with the Tree of Life, in which paradise is regained. This profusely illuminated Hours falls in a category of extra-illustrated Books of Hours with borders on every page and bas-de-page scenes from the turn of the 16th century associable with the output of the workshops of the Master of Martainville and Jean Pichore, one of the most dominant figures in turn-of-the century Parisian illumination This was a period when the proliferation of densely embellished printed Hours in Paris (by Vostre, Kerver, and Pigouchet) led to a cross-fertilization between manuscript and printed compositions, facilitated by the artists who both illuminated manuscripts and designed cuts for printed books. The list of comparable manuscripts must be carefully studied. The closest in style are the Hours of "HJ" or "JH" with the mystic pelican, offered with an estimate of 250.000-300.00 by Giquello, see the resemblance. with the female donor and the landscape. The miniatures are in different hands, but the one of the Virgin Mary opposite that of the Donor is particularly striking, the work of a master. Some miniatures seem to be close to the Workshop of the Martainville Master (e.g. the Labouchère Hours). See www.konstantinopel.nl for more info.- $133,997
- $133,997
First Ed. of BIDLOO’S SPLENDID ANATOMICAL ATLAS ANATOMIA HUMANI CORPORIS masterpieces of Dutch Baroque art
BIDLOO ANATOMIA HUMANI CORPORIS.] Ontleding des menschelyken lichaams. Amsterdam: Joannes van Someren, Joannes van Dyk, Hendrik, & Dirk Boom, 1690. *6, A- Qqq1. Illustrated with additional engraved title, engraved portrait, and 105 full-page engraved plates after Gérard de Lairesse. Folio 520 x 350 mm, handsomely margined copy, Period full vellum, engraved title page with minor upper corner loss to margin only and some edge toning ; internally some light foxing, toning, occasional minor soiling , but overall an attractive copy. First edition in Dutch. - Anatomia Humani Corporis" by Govard Bidloo is a landmark in the history of anatomical illustration due to its intricate and artistically rendered plates. Published in the late 17th century, (Latin in 1685) the work contains 105 copperplate engravings, which, unlike earlier In the 17th century, anatomical illustrations embraced the aesthetics of the Baroque period. This meant that the depictions were not just scientifically accurate but also artistically rich, dramatic, and filled with emotion. These Baroque influences gave the illustrations a dynamic feel, with shadows, intricate details, and theatrical poses that transcended the clinical realm and entered the domain of art. Govard Bidloo's combination of accurate anatomy with Baroque artistry helped bridge the gap between science and art, making his work a unique and influential contribution to the history of medical illustration. According to Garrison, the plates, created by Gérard de Lairesse and engraved by Pieter van Guns, are regarded as masterpieces of Dutch Baroque art."- $13,958
- $13,958
English bookbinding The Ladies Charity School-house Roll of Highgate:
BLAKE BLAKE, (William). The Ladies Charity School-house Roll of Highgate: or A Subscription of many Noble, well-disposed Ladies for the easie carrying of it on. First edition, a little worn and dulled, repairs to corners, 8vo, (150 mm x 95 mm) [1670]. Drop-head title, 4 engraved plates, lacking final blank leaf, some water-staining and soiling, short tear to P1, original black morocco, covers tooled with an all-over gilt pattern of pointille drawer-handles and stylised flower tools, decorative gilt panelled spine, probably by "The Charity School Binder". $ 6,000.- Appeals for donations, followed by "Silver drops, or, serious things" p. 79-292. With the 4 plates, entitled "Father Time", "Charity", "Front elevation of the School" and "Butterflies". Copies frequently lack one or more plates since they were used as receipts and "hung up in the School-house" Wing suggests a conjectural date of 1670. However, a later work For the promoting and advancing the great designed hospital and work-house London, [1692?] (ESTC R506776) refers on p.3 to this work as "written some twelve years since". Later annotations on the fly leaf. Elisabeth Mussred her Book, given her by the Reverend doctor Curling. 1740. A curious book with a beautiful, possibly important English binding, that deserves proper attention. The author set out a scheme for establishing a Charity School at Highgate for the education and maintenance of poor, or fatherless children, all born at or near Highgate, Hornsey, or Hampstead; The philanthropic projector of this school purchased a house at Highgate (depicted in the book), in the Parish of St. Pancras, which had been the residence of the Marquis of Dorchester, and during the first year the school was open, about forty poor and fatherless boys were admitted. He was however rather ambitious (for selfish reasons?), and included in his scheme the building of a hospital; for Kentish Town, Highgate, and Hampstead were at that time, and for many years after, much visited by Londoners in the summer season.The first part contains copies of letters written by him on behalf of the boys, addressed to twenty-six noble and other ladies, it gives no names and has often a lamenting tone, which seems rather curious, if you want to get something done. Blake even threatens the ladies who he writes with the outrage of public opinion, if the public would see sordid, poor, ragged, half-starved pupils. Then they would say: Were there not good Ladies enough in and about London, to main- tain a little School? a Duce on their Pride, Charity, Close hand and Covetousness. Blake points out that it would even make the Christian religion look bad. He then exhorts these ladies to set the wheel a going by giving something this Easter, one Whitsuntide or two. The second part consists of Silver Drops which emphasises, through quotes of the scripture, that charity is a good thing. The binding is in the style of the Queen's binders. There are however no tools in common with the example illustrated by Mirjam Foot in The Book Collector, Spring 1983, nor with the example in Maggs cat. 1075 item 75. Probably the binding is by a Charity School Binder. Designed to stimulate donors generosity. The Folger Shakespeare Library, 1992 exhibited their copy. See: Fine and Historic Bookbindings (catalogue entry 6:2) Last auction record 3250 GBP, Forum, London.- $6,700
- $6,700
Inquisition De officio S. Inquisitionis circa haeresim : cum bullis . ad eandem materiam, seu ad idem officium spectantibus
Two larges folio, (35 x 23 cm). Title page in red and black with engraved vignette, engraved initials and head-pieces, text in two columns. Contemporary full vellum binding, (boards very well restored, some light wear). Some browning throughout. A detailed work on the office of the Inquisition. The author, who entered the order of the Theatines in Naples in 1623, taught theology at Sant'Andrea della Valle in Rome where he became a consultant to the Holy Office on the Jansenistic question in 1651. No auction record found, no in the trade.- $3,908
- $3,908
Creatures of the night. SUPERSTITION Responde Don Andres Davila Heredia . al Libro del Ente dilucidado discurso . que muestra que ay en naturaleza animales y irracionales invisibles .
DÁVILA Y HEREDIA ON SUPERSTITION 106. DÁVILA Y HEREDIA, Andrés. Responde Don Andres Davila Heredia . al Libro del Ente dilucidado discurso . que muestra que ay en naturaleza animales y irracionales invisibles . del Rmo. P. Fr. Antonio de Fuentelapeña . Dávila y Heredia, Andrés ; Hernández Máñez, Vicente, ant. pos. Impresso en Valencia : en la o23cina de Villagrassa, 1678. Contemporary limp vellum binding, pages brown. 8v. [4] 154 [4]. pp. $ 1,750.- Don Andreas Davila Heredia, Lord of Garena. Madrid, 1627 c. 1689. Soldier, engineer, astrologer, arbitrator, and polemicist. His work can be viewed as a precursor to the Age of Enlightenment. A colourful 23gure, a man of arms and deep thoughts, a musician and politician of which we know little about. He served the king in Flanders from 1645 to 1651. In 1651, he returned to Madrid and was designated Her Majesty's Military Engineer. The subsequent year, he married María de la Torre. He was also the secretary of the ambassador of the King of Denmark, a professor of Mathematics, an astrologer, and, most prominently, a polemicist and arbitrator. In 1657 he appears as a servant of Felipe IV, and from that point, he was granted immunity from censorship and unparalleled freedom. This led him to write on various subjects and to be part of the controversies of his era across diEferent disciplines: astrology, mathematics, medicine, theatre, and so on. In his writings, he polemizes with Antonio de Fuentelapeña, the author of a controversial treatise on the existence of goblins and gnomes, among other fantastical beings, discussing their traits, physical properties, their roles, and interactions in nature, and more. The extent to which he takes these discussions seriously is ambiguous. The book appears to be a blend of natural history, superstition, morality, animism, alchemy, and philosophical discussion. This work is exceedingly rare (Palau 68970). Salvá, 4.046: "The work of the clari23ed Entity is not easy to 23nd; but the book of Dávila Heredia is even more challenging to acquire." Outside Spain, copies are located at Stonebroke University USA, one in Chile, and one in the British Library. None in Germany. We checked Princeton, Harvard and Yale individually to be sure.- $2,736
- $2,736
THE WEALTHIEST WOMAN BOOK TRADER Abridgment of Military Discipline, for the use of His Majesties forces in the kingdom of Scotland.
CAMPBELL, Agnes. ] An Abridgment of Military Discipline, for the use of His Majesties forces in the kingdom of Scotland. By His Majesties special command. Edinburgh : Printed by the heir of Andrew Anderson, printer to His most sacred Majesty, Anno Dom. 1686. 8vo., 15 x 8.5 cm., ESTC 006169217, Wing (2nd ed.) A101. BOUND WITH . Rules and articles of war, for the better government of His Majesties army in the Kingdom of Scotland. Edinburgh : printed by the heir of Andrew Anderson ., anno Dom. 1686. 36, [2] p. Final leaf contains permission to print this item, and is signed: By His Majesties command, Melfort. ESTC 006156210 Wing (CD-ROM, 1996), R2242B. 2 volumes in 1. Contemporary calf with rubbing and minor loss to foot of spine. Bookplate of Thomas Francis Fremantle, 2nd Baron Cottesloe (1830-1918, armorial bookplate). Contemporary ownership inscription of Sep. 28. 1686 is on the verso of the first title. VERY RARE. ESTS cites only two copies. $ 1,750.- Important edition of the "first official drill manual of the English standing army" (Childs), originally printed in 1676, but the first edition printed by the famed Agnes Campbell. The title page imprint notes "Printed b Heir of Andrew Anderson". Indeed, the work was printed by Agnes Campbell, Lady Roseburn (1637 24 July 1716), famed Scottish businesswoman. Campell inherited the printing business in substantial debt. Her success was remarkable and she rose to be the wealthiest book trader of early modern Scotland and the wealthiest female merchant not to have inherited her wealth. Another 1681 imprinted notes her license unusually as "Printress to his most sacred Majesty"- $1,954
- $1,954
A COMPLETE BREECHES BIBLE
Breeches Bible BIBLE [ENGLISH]. The Bible: Translated according to the Ebrew and Greeke, and conferred with the best translations in divers languages . and also a most profitable Concordance for the readie finding out of anything in the same contained, Imprinted at London by Robert Bakker, 1607, general and New Testament titles within decorative woodcut borders. Imprinted at London by Robert Bakker, 1607. Herbert 290; Darlow & Moule 223; STC 2200. There are two varieties of this date, which differ throughout. This example is variant A, with misprint Bakker in general title. NT title dated 1607. 8vo. Contemporary, English panelled calf, rebacked in the 19th century. (22 x 16 cm). A good copy, without damage or missing pages. WITH: Two right profitable and fruitful Concordances, or large and ample Tables Alphabeticall. The first containing the interpretation of the Hebrew, Caldean, Greek, and Latine word. London, Robert Barker. London 1607. With: The whole booke of Psalmes. Collected into English meeter by Thomas Sternhold. London 1607. With another book bound in: The Booke of Common Prayer and Administration of the Sacraments, date? Probably 1607, title page. The Geneva Bible is one of the most historically significant translations of the Bible into English, preceding the King James Version by 51 years. It was the primary Bible of 16th-century English Protestantism and was used by William Shakespeare, Oliver Cromwell, John Knox, John Donne, and others. It was one of the Bibles taken to America on the Mayflower (Pilgrim Hall Museum has collected several Bibles of Mayflower passengers). Robert Barker's Bible is frequently sold on the market, often accompanied by the concordances and the Book of Psalms. The Book of Common Prayer is a separate publication. However, Barker's Bible is usually sold with missing pages, and it can be challenging to find a complete copy for sale. The additional Book of Common Prayer is always sold as a separate volume.- $5,025
- $5,025
Coelum philosophorum, Alchemy
Ulstadt ULSTADT (Philippe) Coelum philosophorum, seu liber De secretis Naturae. Lyon, Guillaume Rouillé, 1557. 32 mo., 431 pp + index . 18 x 12 cm., Modern vellum binding in period style with yapp edges; internally some occasional dampstains. Recto of first blank has a manuscript recipe for distillation involving breastmilk. ULSTADT (Philippe) Coelum philosophorum, seu liber De secretis Naturae. Lyon, Guillaume Rouillé, 1557. 32 mo., 431 pp + index . 18 x 12 cm., Modern vellum binding in period style with yapp edges; internally some occasional dampstains. Recto of first blank has a manuscript recipe for distillation involving breastmilk. Rare early Lyon edition of this famous treatise on distillation by Philippe Ulstadt and on the preparation of substances and their use in medicine. The interesting woodcuts of apparatus, retorts, flasks, receivers, furnaces etc. are reduced copies of those by Gesner printed by Grüninger in the early part of the 16th century. Ulstadt was originally from Nuremberg, but practiced his art in Friborg in Switzerland. His Coelum philosophorum. is based on the various treatises of of Arnaud de Villeneuve, Albert Le Grand, Raymond Lully, Ficino, etc., and first published it in 1525. It clearly had a utilitarian use, as early copies are scarcely encountered and undoubtably lost to time through use by practitioners: this edition appears twice in RBH records See: Ferguson II:482. Duveen, p.591.- $3,071
- $3,071
A discouerie of sundrie errours and faults EXTREMELY RARE WORK OF ELIZABETHAN MAPMAKING
Worsop WORSOP, Edward, author. :A discouerie of sundrie errours and faults daily committed by lande-meaters, ignorant of arithmetike and geometrie, to the damage, and preiudice of many her Maiesties subiects [electronic resource] : with manifest proofe that none ought to be admitted to that function, but the learned practisioners of those sciences: written dialoguewise, according to a certaine communication had of that matter. By Edward Worsop, Londoner. Euery one that measureth land by laying head to head, or can take a plat by some geometricall instrument, is not to be accounted therfore a sufficient landmeater, except he can also prooue his instruments, and measurings, by true geometricall demonstrations. At London : Printed by Henrie Middleton for Gregorie Seton, Anno 1582. : 76 p. : ill.(woodcuts) A-I⁴ Small 4to, modern 3/4 calf., with wear, front board detached. Last two leaves (K1-2) in expert facsimile, on old paper, bottom inch of leaf I4 lacking; several other lower margins cropped, with occasional loss of a line or half-line. A few leaves damp-stained. EXTREMELY RARE. ESTC cites 4 copies worldwide, two copies in the US- $10,608
- $10,608
THE AUERSPERG COPY OF ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS ACTRESSES OF THE RENAISSANCE Lettere Della Signora Isabella Andreini, bound with Fragmenti di alcune scritture della Signora Isabella Andreini Comica Gelosa
ANDREINI CANALI, Isabella NDREINI CANALI, Isabella. Lettere Della Signora Isabella Andreini, Venice, G.B. Combi, 1627. Bound with. Fragmenti di alcune scritture della Signora Isabella Andreini Comica Gelosa & Accademica intenta. 8vo. 2 works in 1 vol. (24), 268; 180 pp. Contemporary limp vellum, some detachment of textblock. From the Slovenian Ljubljanian Prince Auersperg s Library with bookplate and accession date of 1655, bearing the signature of Wolfgang Engelbert Auersperg . Isabella Andreini (1562-1604) was among the most gifted and famous actresses of her era, performing for notable figures such as Henry IV of France and other monarchs. A collection of her letters, first published in 1607, touches on subjects like human beauty, love, death, the fervor of love, and choosing a spouse. Andreini was affliated with the Compagnia dei Comici Gelosi, a theatre group that excelled in Commedia dell'arte and catered to the elite of Italy and France. From her early career, Isabella was renowned for portraying the enamored "prima donna innamorata" and was a trailblazer in theatrical improvisation. n their younger years, the Auersperg brothers traveled extensively in Italy, seeking to understand the art of romantic courtesy. In the 1630s, Wolfgang Engelbert Auersperg explored Venice, Padua, and Bologna, where he grew fascinated by the nascent art form of opera. In Ljubljana, his private library held a selection of early Italian opera librettos, such as "La gara" and "Le vicende del tempo" from 1652, and "L'Argia" from 1655. His brother, Prince Auersperg, was equally moved by his Italian experiences. By 1661, he established an Italian academy in Vienna.- $2,233
- $2,233
A confutation of a sermon, pronou[n]ced by M. Iuell, at Paules crosse, the second Sondaie before Easter (which Catholikes doe call Passion Sondaie) Catholic work printed in antwerp
RASTELL, John, (1532-157 A confutation of a sermon, pronou[n]ced by M. Iuell, at Paules crosse, the second Sondaie before Easter (which Catholikes doe call Passion Sondaie) Anno D[omi]ni .M.D.LX. By Iohn Rastell M. of Art, and studient in diuinitie. Variant title Confutation of a sermon, pronounced by M. Juell, at Paules crosse, the second Sondaie before Easter (which Catholikes doe call Passion Sondaie) Anno Domini .M.D.LX. Imprinted at Antwerp : by Ægidius Diest, 21. Nouemb. Anno. 1564. 8 vo., 16 x 10 cm., [5], 176, [3] leaves. Limp vellum, minor loss to top of spine. text-block detached and in need of reviewing, evidence of vellum ties. Small Liverpool Mechanics Stamp to title page, and bookplate to recto, blank with minor loss to top, small wormhole to title and A2/3, another Liverpool Mechanics Stamp to a2. ohn Rastell (1532-1577) was a staunch Catholic debater who fervently opposed Bishop John Jewel, the Anglican bishop of Salisbury. Bishop Jewel played a pivotal role in defending the English Reformation and authored numerous pieces advocating for the Anglican stance against the Catholic Church, Rastell's confutation was against Jewel's famous sermon, that according to the diarist Henry Machyn, was attended "grett audyense as (has ever) bene at Powlles (Pauls')crosse. The first Bible in English is thought to have been printed by Christopher Froschauer in Zurich in 1535. The second was printed in Antwerp in 1537, while the third, started in Paris in 1539, was finished in England. In addition to their New Testaments, Tyndale and George Joy produced numerous polemical writings in Antwerp. In the following generation, after Elizabeth's rise to power, Antwerp became a refuge for Roman Catholic exiles. During 1564-6, Hans de Laet, John Fouler, Willem Sylvius, and Gillis van Diest the younger were often approached to supply paper and printing services for Stapleton, Harding, William Rastell, and Bishop Jewel's other critics.- $5,025
- $5,025
Praxis rhetorica generis Extremely rare renaissance treatise on rhetorics,
Roscio ROSCIO, Nicolao. Praxis rhetorica generis demonstratiui, in Euagoram Isocratis. Veronae. Ex typographia Hieroymi Discipili. 1587. 8vo. [8], 91 pp. Contemporary vellum. Title somewhat spotted, with a small stain, else good. Extremely rare renaissance treatise on rhetorics, with the commentary of the (unknown to me) Nicolao Roscio. World catalogue lists two copies, one in Oxford, one in Stanford. We found one through Censimento nazionale delle edizioni italiane del XVI secolo but no location listed. Not mentioned in the standard work. By Carl Joachim Classen · 2003 Antike Rhetorik im Zeitalter des Humanismus- $1,675
- $1,675
TABULAE ABCDARIAE PUERILES. FIRST CHILDREN S ABC Exceedingly rare
FIRST CHILDREN S ABC TABULAE ABCDARIAE PUERILES, N.D. but 1544. Pristine Broadside. Folio 33:21 cm. Children were often taught to read by printed examples of the alphabet and the Lord s Prayer. This sheet is one of the earliest surviving lessons (probably because, as its appearance suggests, it was never used). Although there is no imprint statement on the sheet, the blocks used in the border were also used by Valentin Bapst in the late 1540s, suggesting that he is this work s printer as well. The ABC chart features different fonts for alphabets, including uppercase Antiqua, lowercase Fraktur, and lowercase Antiqua. It incorporates vowels, diphthongs, and consonants. It also includes syllable exercises and the Lord's Prayer in Fraktur script. A decorative border with the monogram "IL" or "IV" is present. Similar border elements are found 85 16th century in devotional books by Bapst, suggesting the source of the ABC chart. This one of the unused copies was discovered in 1925. A strong imprint, when you touch the back side of the chart, they can feel the raised imprints or indentations of the letters from the printing process. Last copy but ours at auction in the Parker Bennett sale in 1953, when it was already described as a broadside of great importance. Literature, Children's Books of Yesterday- $19,541
- $19,541
Alphabeta et Characteres,
BRY, Johann Theodor and Johann Israel de BRY. . Oblong 4to. 153 x 200 mm. Engraved title (inc in prelims) and vignette, 47 of 51 engraved plates ONLY: Also note: A1 plate in early manuscript, Lacking I4, Lacking K-M3, N1 ; interestingly verso of N4 with manuscript verse in a 17th century English hand. Leaf N1, which presents an alphabet created from the forms of one or two gymnasts is lacking, Leaf N2, showcases six unique monograms. Leaves N3 and N4 oIfer a "Sonetto Figurato," 17th century English limp vellum Exceptionally rare edition of De Brys' iconic Mannerist alphabet, featuring a diverse collection of expertly engraved calligraphic alphabets that represent a wide array of cultures. The alphabet, which is KLlled with imaginative depictions of animals and plants like horses, butterNOies, and vines. The plates derive from various linguistic traditions, including but not limited to Syrian, Phoenician, Hebrew, Egyptian, Arabic, Sumerian, Greek, Slavic, Croatian, Russian, Armenian, Indian, and Visogothic, as well as several variants of Roman scripts. The volume also contains plates that highlight diIferent national calligraphic styles, ranging from German and Flemish to Italian and Spanish- $3,071
- $3,071
Enarrationes Evangeliorum Holy Land with a map
CALIXTUS PLACENTINUS (Calisto da Piacenza). CALIXTUS PLACENTINUS (Calisto da Piacenza). Enarrationes Evangeliorum a septuagesima usque ad octavam Paschae. Iuxta sensum literalem. Parisiis : Apud A. Parvum, 1554. 8vo. contemporary limp vellum binding, 17 cm x 11 cm. 506 pp, [1]. Baudier V 308. The manual written by the inquisitor general for all of Italy. "Ennarationes Evangeliorum", would have served as a guide or reference for preachers during this time, helping them understand and interpret the Gospels in the context of Lent. The author used his vast scriptural knowledge in the work but steered clear of deep exegetical discussions. In other words, instead of getting lost in detailed theological or interpretative debates, the manual focused on providing clear, direct guidance for preachers. The work also included a geographical description of the Holy Land, complete with an archaic double- page woodcut map of Syria, Palestine, and Arabia Desertae, complete with sea-monsters. We do not know what the example for this map was. This and other editions don't seem to be present in the US according to OCLC. We independently verified Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. This French edition seems to be particularly rare, 5 copies worldwide. No copy in the trade. Only one copy at auction. Reiss 2010, 1150 for the Italian edition of 1550.- $2,792
- $2,792
Pratica d’arithmetica 71 16th century EARLY MATHEMATICS AND ALGEBRA. Annotated
FIORENTINO, Francesco Ghaligai. FIORENTINO, Francesco Ghaligai. Pratica d'arithmetica di francesco ghaligai fiorentino. Nuovamente rivista, & con somma diligenza ristampata. In Firenze : Appresso i Giunti. MDLII 1552. Contemporary vellum. 8vo. (20 x 15 cm). Margin of the title page restored. Some outer restored with Japanese vellum. With Giunta lily and snake device on title-page and verso of last leaf. Ownership inscription of Pietro di Giacomo Cataneo, (1510-1574) a mathematician and an architect. Last leaf on verso completely annotated (probably in his hand). No auction records Francesco Ghaligai proposes a new notation for powers of the unknown. but the other notations never caught on with other authors. However, it is believed that it may have had a significant influence on the study of mathematics. This opinion is based on the fact that his book is much simpler than other books such as Pacioli's Suma, and therefore could have been used more easily as an introduction to mathematical study. Ghaligai's work is divided into thirteen books, the first nine of which are wholly arithmetical. The last four are devoted to algebra, including Regula dell' Arcibra, which, like other works of the time, includes long explanations of methods for the extraction of roots and operations with binomial surds classified as they are found in Euclid's Elements. Book ten contains a theoretical treatment of the solution of equations, where we find the equation with one variable in the six forms given by the Arab writer Al-Khwarizmi in his ninth-century algebra. Book XIII, the last and most intriguing section of the text, contains forty-seven problems that cannot be attributed to any other author. Two men found a purse. Said the first to the second, "Give me the purse and the cube root of your money, and I shall have as much as you." Said the second to the first, "Give me the purse and the square root of your money, and I shall have seven times as much as you." The question is, how much was in the purse, and how much had each man at first. But there are more abstract ones as well, Find five numbers in continued proportion such that the sum of the second and fourth shall be 10, and the sum of the products of each number by each of the others shall be 620. It seems improbable that Ghaligai wrote primarily for merchants, as has been sometimes assumed. He seems rather to have been a teacher introducing mercantile problems for the sake of interest. It is interesting from many points of view, and considered as a means by which the works of Fibonacci, Pacioli and many others were made accessible to students of the time.- $5,583
- $5,583
Ephrem Diaconus, Ephrem of Syria. Sermones secundum Traditionem Venerabilis Incunabula
EPHREM Ephrem Diaconus, Ephrem of Syria. Sermones secundum Traditionem Venerabilis Patris Ambrosii Camaldolensis Bartolomeo Miscomini 23 August 1481. Chancery Folio, 260 x 185 mm. 18th-century vellum over paper boards, lettered in ink on spine Collation: 2- a-18. 89 leaves ( lacking initial blank only), unfoliated. Type 112R. 33 lines. Internally, minor marginal loss from initial page of table and some creasing to that page, last leaf with minor l.r. corner loss not a@fecting text, some sparse marginalia, occasional light soiling. Ref: HC 6599*; GW 9331; Pr 6138*; BMC VI, 636. St. Ephrem of Syria, also known as Ephrem the Syrian, was a renowned 4th-century Christian theologian and hymnographer associated with the Syriac Christian Church. Born around 306 AD in Nisibis and later settling in Edessa, he is particularly celebrated for his extensive literary output, which included hymns, poems, and sermons. Among his works, the "Sermones secundum Traditionem Venerabilis" represents a collection of his sermons, showcasing his deep theological insights, spiritual reDEections, and eloquent prose, all of which contributed signiGHcantly to Syriac Christian liturgical and theological tradition. The translator, Ambrosius Camaldulensis (1386-1439), m was a prominent 15th-century scholar and monk of the Camaldolese order. He was renowned for his contributions to the revival of Greek studies during the early Renaissance in Italy. His translations and other scholarly works played a role in fostering the cultural and intellectual exchange between the Greek East and the Latin West, bridging the two traditions during a transformative period in European history. THE WORK IS ALSO THE FIRST BOOK PRINTED IN MISCOMINI'S ROMAN TYPE. As printing specimens the early roman types are of particular interest as typography transitioned from the gothic. Various Italian 'romans' made it to market of varying degrees of quality. Jenson's is famously hailed as the GHnest, but close to his elegance were Venetian type of John and Wendelin de Spire and Ratdolt, Servius at Rome, and Miscomini in Florence. Miscomini's fonts later were partly responsible for the popularity of Savonarola's tract which were elevated from coarse woodcuts and crude paper with his GHne roman typeface- $8,375
- $8,375
THE THOUSAND MARTYRS ON THE MOUNT ARARAT. ONE COPY WORLDWIDE ONLY
ANASTASE LE BIBLIOTHECAIRE t. Ephrem of Syria, also known as Ephrem the Syrian, was a renowned 4th-century Christian theologian and hymnographer associated with the Syriac Christian Church. Born around 306 AD in Nisibis and later settling in Edessa, he is particularly celebrated for his extensive literary output, which included hymns, poems, and sermons. Among his works, the "Sermones secundum Traditionem Venerabilis" represents a collection of his sermons, showcasing his deep theological insights, spiritual reDEections, and eloquent prose, all of which contributed signiGHcantly to Syriac Christian liturgical and theological tradition. The translator, Ambrosius Camaldulensis (1386-1439), m was a prominent 15th-century scholar and monk of the Camaldolese order. He was renowned for his contributions to the revival of Greek studies during the early Renaissance in Italy. His translations and other scholarly works played a role in fostering the cultural and intellectual exchange between the Greek East and the Latin West, bridging the two traditions during a transformative period in European history. THE WORK IS ALSO THE FIRST BOOK PRINTED IN MISCOMINI'S ROMAN TYPE. As printing specimens the early roman types are of particular interest as typography transitioned from the gothic. Various Italian 'romans' made it to market of varying degrees of quality. Jenson's is famously hailed as the GHnest, but close to his elegance were Venetian type of John and Wendelin de Spire and Ratdolt, Servius at Rome, and Miscomini in Florence. Miscomini's fonts later were partly responsible for the popularity of Savonarola's tract which were elevated from coarse woodcuts and crude paper with his GHne roman typeface ANASTASE LE BIBLIOTHECAIRE. Comincia el prologo del venerabile Anastasio armarista, cioè guardiano de libri della Sedia apostolica, al venerabile padre veschovo Sabinense Cardinale della sancta chiesa, sopra la passione delli dieci mila martyri crocifixi di Iesu Christo. N.d. But Florence 1510 ? 8vo. 19th century half leather. 8 leaves. With a delightful woodcut on the title- page. The Legend of the Ten Thousand Martyrs is a fascinating tale from Christian hagiography that captures a moment in the narrative of Christian persecution under the Roman Empire. There is a Latin incunabula account of this text (GW M29728] but it contains an unrelated frontispiece (that of the Virgin Mary). This Italian edition is a bibliographical mystery. More info on request- $7,537
- $7,537
Arabic medicine Jacobus de Forlivio super Primo Avicenne. Avicenna Annotated
Jacobus de Forlivio super Primo Avicenne. Jacobi Forliviensis in primum Avicenne Canonem expositio cum questionibus eiusdem . Huic etiam nove impressioni scito additam fore expositionem . Jacobi de partibus . super capitulis videlicet De regimine eius quod comeditur & bibitur. vij. Et de regimine aque & vini. viij. Doct. ij. fen. iii. Primi. De quibus nullap. Jaco. For. inventa est expositio. Venetijs mandato & expēsis . Luceantonij de Giunta, 1520. Folio (32 x 22 cm). [8], 233 pages. Strictly contemporary binding, half calf and wooden boards, with four clasps. Overall a beautiful, crisp copy with ample margins. A few leaves browned, an occasional needle like worm hole in the last leaves. Contemporary annotations throughout A 1520 Venice edition features Jacopo da Forlì's commentary on the first book of Avicenna's canon, Al- Qānūn fī aṭ-ṭibb, and includes the entire Latin text of his work. Though Jacopo da Forlì, also known as Jacobus de Forlivio (died 1413) was a renowned commentator on Avicenna's works, his contributions are not as extensively documented or debated as those of other commentators or translations of Avicenna's pieces. OCLC lists 6 copies. Not in the library of Medicine, nor in the Wellcome catalogue. Exceedingly rare, the pristine state in which the book is in makes it a treasure- $36,291
- $36,291
Quattro comedie del diuino Pietro Aretino LONDON Imprint
ARETINO, Pietro, (1492-1556) Quattro comedie del diuino Pietro Aretino. Cioè Il Marescalco La cortegiana La Talanta, Lhipocrito. Nouellamente ritornate, per mezzo della stampa, a luce, a richiesta de conoscitori del lor valore. [London : printed by John Wolfe], MDLXXXVIII. [1588] small 8vo.14 x 9 cm [8], 285, [3] leaves ; With 4 Separate Title Pages. Old calf, rebacked. STC (2nd ed.), 19911 John Wolfe, an audacious and outspoken Elizabethan printer, was responsible for several surreptitious Italian publications. While he began his career as a FGshmonger, his time in Italy equipped him with proFGcient printing skills. Opting not to associate his name with the pirated renditions of Machiavelli's and Aretino's works especially since all of Aretino's had been on the Index since 1558 and Machiavelli's since 1559 suggests that these books were likely intended for Italian readers in England, for export, or for the more daring English audience. These pieces are paragons of Renaissance drama: vivid, eloquent, and incisive. Pietro Aretino (14921556) was notorious for a series of erotic sonnets, in one of which he declares himself to have been a sodomite from birth. Notably, Aretino has also been dubbed the 'Father' of Pornography, with works that touched even upon homosexual themes. For instance, in "Il Marescalco", the male protagonist is delighted to FGnd out that his forced bride is actually a disguised page boy. Aretino's narratives likely left an impression on playwrights like Jonson and perhaps even Shakespeare, who might have encountered Aretino's works in their pirated versions.- $1,954
- $1,954
