RONDELET, Guillaume (1507-66) - Libri de piscibus marinis, in quibus verae piscium effigies expressae sunt. [CON:] - Universae aquatilium historiae pars altera, cum veris ipsorum imaginibus. Lyon: Mathias Bonhomme, 1554.   A fascinating first edition of Rondelet's massive work and seminal study of ichthyology and all varieties of aquatic life. His research and his examinations surpassed any previous work in the field; it "influenced the development of ichthyological research and remained the gold standard for over a century" (Norman). The work is accompanied by an incredible iconographic apparatus representing about 250 species of fish, shells, crustaceans, turtles, marine mammals including seals, dolphins, whales, killer whales and other marine animals including reptiles and starfish; there are also some fantastic creatures such as the Nereids or the "Pisces Episcopi habitu" [fish dressed as a bishop].   2 parts in one volume, folio (334 x 208mm). Printer's devices on titles, woodcut initials and headpieces, portrait of the author within an oval, numerous woodcut illustrations (title with circular stain due to a restoration or a removed provenance, slightly browned and with some waterstainigns, a few tiny marginal tears). Contemporary half vellum over boards, manuscript title on spine and at lower edge (light wear). Provenance: some early underlining and a few annotations.

Estimate € 2,500 - 3,500

Sold € 4,000