Hero of Alexandria — Bernardino Baldi (trans.) | De gli automati, overo machine se moventi, Venice, 1589, first edition, contemporary vellum

Hero of Alexandria — Bernardino Baldi (trans.)

De gli automati, overo machine se moventi, libri due, tradotti dal Greco da Bernardino Baldi Abbate di Guastalla. Venice: Girolamo Porro, 1589

First edition of Baldi's translation of this pioneering treatise, including a discussion of robotics and machine theory.

A first-century Greek scientist, Hero of Alexandria is best known for his inventions that sought to accomplish simple tasks, seemingly without human intervention. The present work was one of 13 attributed to him in Greek. This Italian edition was begun in 1576 by Bernardino Baldi, but its publication was delayed for several years due to the death of Baldi's teacher, Federico Commandino (see lot 23).

4to (206 x 150 mm). Engraved architectural title, woodcut head and tailpieces and initials, 11 woodcut and 11 engraved illustrations, "Semoventi D'Erone" in contemporary hand to lower edge; some primarily marginal dampstaining, a few spots and instances of marginal foxing, leaf L4 with old fold. Contemporary vellum, manuscript title to spine, manuscript note to bottom edge of text block; minor staining.

REFERENCES

Tomash & Williams H119; Edit16 22645; USTC 835654

PROVENANCE

Early manuscript shelfmarks — M.L. Borromeo Arese (bookplate to front pastedown)