De inventoribus rerum libri VIII. et De prodigiis libri III.

12mo: [44]-511-[3]-100-[90] pp. (occ. spotting).

Cont. sheep (rubbed), gilt spine on 5 raised bands (head and tail def.), red sp. edges. Good copy.

Only Elzevier ed. of this early encyclopedia by Polydore Vergil (1470-1555), 1st publ. 1499. It was a history of origins and inventions, describing in three books the "first begetters" of all human activities. Book I investigated the origin of the gods and the word "God", along with such matters as the creation, marriage, religion and learning. Book II covered the origins of law, time, military science, money, precious metals and art. Book III i.a. covered the origins of agriculture, architecture, towns, theatres, tools and materials, maritime navigation, commerce and prostitution. Engr. front. Mark on title.  Ref. Willems 1465. - Simon (Bacchica) 676. - STCN.