COMES (Natalis)

Lot 34
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4000 - 6000 EUR
COMES (Natalis)
Mythology, that is to say, Explanation of the Fables, containing the genealogies of the Gods, the ceremonies [sic] of their sacrifices; their gestures, adventures, loves. And almost all the precepts of natural and moral philosophy. Lyon, [Jean Poyer pour] Paul Frelon, 1604. In-4, havana morocco, double gilt fillet, large gilt foliage medallion in the center, the middle in reserve charged with initials (double P intertwined on the first plate, and double ? intertwined on the second) flanked by four fermesses, spine decorated with fillets and repeated numerals (double P, double ?, double C and S closed), gilt edges (Binding of the time). First French translation of the Mythology of the neo-Latin poet and humanist Natale Conti (Natalis Comes), whose original edition appeared in Venice in 1567. Translated by Jean de Montlyard, former proofreader for Henri Estienne in Geneva and secretary to the Prince of Condé, it is decorated with a beautiful copper-engraved title-frontispiece by Thomas de Leu and a portrait of Henri de Bourbon-Condé at the age of sixteen, engraved by Jacques Granthomme. Imposing binding with the interlaced figures of Philippe de Mornay, lord of Plessis-Marly (1549-1623), and of his wife Charlotte d'Arbaleste. Friend and minister of Henri IV, this theologian was one of the most eminent men of the Protestant party. Governor of Saumur from 1589 to 1621, this ardent bibliophile was also the founder of the Protestant Academy of this city. Handwritten bookplate at the top of the title: Japartiens à Louis Ayrault Sénéchal du roi Henry. A second note in a small handwriting: given to Chauveau. On the title page the signature Chauveau. Slight uniform foxing. Small and skilful restorations to the binding, notably to the upper cover.
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