GERLI, Agostino (1744-1821). Opuscoli. Parma:... Lot 92

GERLI, Agostino (1744-1821). Opuscoli. Parma: Bodoni, 1785. Scarce first edition of these pamphlets containing a treatise on the first hot air balloon flight in Italy in 1784, performed by Paolo Andreani in a balloon designed by Gerli, all in the presence of the volume's dedicatee, the imperial plenipotentiary of Milan, Johann Joseph Wilczek. 'The part dealing with balloons is the most important and has the most beautiful figures' (Brooks). Folio, (390 x 260 mm). Copper-engraved vignette to title page, head-and tailpieces, 15 engraved plates of which 3 folding, uncut (some light waterstains to inner margin and corners). Bound in a contemporary decorated boards. Brooks 293. (1)