[OCCHIALI DA NASO] - MANNI, Domenico Maria (1690-1788) - Degli occhiali da naso inventati da Salvino Armati gentiluomo fiorentino. Florence: Stamperia d'Anton-Maria Albizzini, 1738.   First edition of Manni's work, one of the first treatises on the history of eyeglasses. After some interesting chapters dedicated to the use of lenses among the ancients, the author writes about Salvino degli Armati, the presumed inventor of modern glasses. This incorrect attribution probably dates back to the historian and forger Ferdinando Leopoldo del Migliore (1628-1696) and was believed to be true for at least two centuries.   4to (215 x 155mm). Engraved vignette on title printed in red and black, woodcut initials and headpieces (occasional light spotting, some loose gatherings). Contemporary vellum with manuscript title on spine, red speckled edges (light defects, tiny wormholes on spine).

Estimate € 300 - 500

Sold € 600