FR EN
1 / 3
an old book with a brown cover and gold triman old book with a picture of a castle on itan old book with writing on it sitting on top of a table
ALDE

98 - PORTA (Giambattista della). *Magiæ naturalis libri viginti*.
See original version (French)

Estimate €300 - €400
Sale commission
Description
PORTA (Giambattista della). *Magiæ naturalis libri viginti*. Rouen, Jean Berthelin, 1650. In-8, speckled calfskin, decorated spine, red edges (contemporary binding). A new edition of this important Renaissance scientific encyclopaedia, covering geology, optics, hermetic medicine, toxicology, gastronomy, cosmetics, metallurgy, etc. The Neapolitan Giambattista della Porta (1535–1615) was a polymath with a curiosity that spanned everything from physiognomy to hydraulics, via alchemy and Kabbalah. He is notably credited with inventing the camera obscura and founding the Accademia dei Segreti. Presumed to have belonged to Jean-Pierre-Casimir Marcassus, Baron de Puymaurin (1757–1841), a renowned chemist and Member of Parliament for Toulouse, bearing the signature ‘Casimir Puymaurin’ on a flyleaf. It subsequently formed part of the library of Dr Pierre-André Créhange, bearing his bookplate. Upper edge trimmed, a few foxing spots. Caillet, no. 8851.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale Fine antique books – A library in the Languedoc
Auction location
Auction time 10/20/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like