Descrizione

First edition, folio issue, in a very fine and especially handsome binding. With over 100 very fine full page engraved plates and 300 engravings within the text, many of which are quite large, title-page printed in red and black. Folio, superbly bound in full dark brown morocco, the spine decorated fully in blind, the compartments with central ornamental decorations, raised bands, lettered in gilt in one compartment, the upper and lower covers with very elaborate decorations blocked in blind and black, incorporating classical motifs, coats of arms, papal insignia, floral devices and border decorations, the upper cover with the whole surrounding an inner panel comprising an Italian coat-of-arms and titling in gilt marbled endleaves and all edges gilt. A superb and especially handsome binding. xiii, 468 pp. A beautiful copy of a most beautiful book, the binding and text block and illustrations all in an excellent state of preservation.