MERULA, Giorgio (m. 1494) - Antiquitatis Vicecomitum libri X - Paolo GIOVIO. Duodecim Vicecomitum Mediolani principum vitæ auctore Paulo Iouio episcopo nucerino - Pietro Candido Decembrio. Philippi Mariae Vicecomitis Mediolanensis. [Milan: eredi di Melchiorre Malatesta, 1630]. A good copy with an excellent impression of this important collection of historical works on the city of Milan, introduced by sumptuous frontispieces engraved by Cesare Bassano based on a design by Crespi, known as Cerano. The work of Decembrio is in the first edition, that of Merula had been printed for the first time in 1500 by Minutianus and that of Giovio in 1549 by Estienne. The detailed portraits of the Visconti Dukes, each accompanied by a caption, are inspired by those of the previous century, engraved on wood and traditionally attributed to Geoffrey Tory. 3 parts in one volume, folio (325 x 228mm). Elaborately engraved frontispiece with the coat of arms of the Visconti family within an elegant frame of architectural and allegorical motifs, with eagle, dragons and weapons and opening to parts I and II, 12 large portraits of the Visconti Dukes within an engraved frame, historiated initials, woodcut head-and-tail pieces (without a blank at the end of the second part). Later vellum, modern manuscript title on spine and earlier title on lower edges, modern box in decorated paper. Provenance: Laurenti Scortis? (early ownership inscription).


Estimate € 800 - 1,200

Sold € 850

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