MATTIOLI, I DISCORSI... NELLI SEI LIBRI DI DIOSCORIDE, VENICE, 1585, LATER CALF

2 volumes in one, folio (363 x 240mm.), woodcut device on title-page, woodcut initials and illustrations, full-page woodcut portrait of the author on k8v (otherwise blank), later Italian speckled calf, spine gilt in compartments, binding somewhat rubbed, joints cracked

Lord Sandys, armorial bookplate

Edit16 46810; Mortimer, Harvard Italian 295

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The numerous and fine woodcuts designed by Giorgio Liberale and Wolfgang Meyerpeck were produced for the Prague edition of Mattioli's herbal, issued in 1562, and subsequently taken to Venice to be used by Valgrisi in 1565. The portrait of the author appears for the first time in this edition, and the final quire contains Mattioli's Del modo di distillare le acque da tutte le piante. Mattioli's herbal was a great commercial success for the Valgrisi firm, who issued no less than 25 editions from 1548 onwards, often in print runs exceeding 2,000 copies.