RAMELLI (Agostino). Lot n° 30

Le Diverse et artificiose machine. Paris, chez l'auteur, 1588. In-folio, red morocco, gilt fleuron lace, spine decorated, gilt edges (18th century binding). First edition of the most beautiful book on mechanics of the 16th century. This fundamental work for the history of technology offers a panorama of instruments and machines engraved in intaglio on 164 (out of 194) full-page or double-page plates of pumps, fountains, derricks, movable bridges, forges, cranes, siege machines, book wheels, etc., which inspired the iconography of mechanics books for over two centuries. The work is also decorated with a rich title frame and a portrait of the author engraved by Léonard Gautier. Agostino Ramelli (1531-1590), a native of Ponte Tresa, was trained as a mathematician and then participated in the Italian wars as a military engineer. On his arrival in France, he placed himself under the protection of the Duke of Anjou, the future Henry III, the dedicatee of the work. Incomplete copy of 37 leaves (illustrated with 30 engravings, 8 of them on double page). Binding very worn with important lacks on the spine and on the first plate, detached, first endpapers torn, some foxing. Dibner, HoS, n°173 - Norman, II, n°1777 - Cockle, n°788 - Kat. Berlin, n°1770 - Mortimer, n°452.