MALPIGHI, Marcello (1628-1694) - Dissertatio epistolica de bombyce. London: John Martyn e James Allestry, 1669.   First edition of this innovative work on the silkworm by Malpighi, doctor of Pope Innocent XII and illustrious scientist. The work is based on the observation of the animal under a microscope and it is revolutionary because until then it was believed that the silkworm had no internal organs.   4to (236 x 170mm). Woodcut initials and headpieces, A4 blank, 12 folding engraved plates (title slightly shorter at lower margin with restorations in correspondence to a removed stamp, wormholes to title and wormtracks running through several pages, plate V with restoration, some slight staining, some small marginal tears, foxing and browning). Later vellum, manuscript title on spine, partially uncut (modern endpapers, light wear, some light staining).

Estimate € 700 - 1,000