OLINA, Giovanni Pietro (1585-1645) - Uccelliera overo discorso della natura e proprietà di diversi uccelli. Rome: Andrea Fei, 1622.   First edition of one of the most renowned books on hunting, one of the first with ornithological engravings by A. Tempesta (1555-1630) and F. Villamena (1566-1624). The work was a great success not only for the undoubted scientific validity but also for some practical aspects, such as the parts dedicated to the habits, capture and management of songbirds, including the preparation of a special meal with almonds, chickpeas, butter and honey to feed nightingales and the use of musicians to encourage their singing. This copy is enriched by some contemporary manuscript notes, with also added recipes for the healthiness of birds. (Cicognara 2072: "Tables very well executed. The use made of them by hunting enthusiasts has made them quite rare”; Nissen IVB 693; “The first purely ornithological work illustrated with a considerable number of engravings in the form of plates or [..] full-page figures." [Anker, p. 13]).   4to (233 x 170mm). Engraved vignette with the arms of Cavalier dal Pozzo, dedicatee of the work, 66 full-page engraved illustrations (restorations to the lower margin of title and marginal restorations at B1, G1, H2, H3, some illustrations slightly cropped, restoration at B1, E1v and E8 touching the engravings, browning, soiling, waterstaining to final leaves). Contemporary vellum, gilt decorations and title on spine, blue speckled edges (very light rubbing). Provenance: occasional contemporary annotation - H. Annice (bookplate on endpaper).

Estimate € 1,000 - 1,500

Sold € 1,900