4to. xxxii + 752 pp., with frontis portrait of Fontanini engraved by Sorello and a second plate of Lorenzo Tiepolo, to whom the work was dedicated (this engraved by A.A. d'Urbino). Also stately headpiece atop first dedication page, smaller decoration at beginning of each of three books and "La Biblioteca". Hybrid work of Italian belle lettres and literature which provides an early history of the Italian language, and an invaluable early summary of the important works of Italian literature up to that time. Fontanini in this included works from all parts of the Italian peninsula, and... View More...
xxxiii, [1], 235 pp. With 120 plates as well, the vast majority featuring two reprints of antique view plates. Interior is entirely tight and clean. Blistering to the rear board which suffered water damage in past and this affects lower spine, which otherwise has also some typical shelfwear. View More...
No. 151 of 300 copies signed by Schwerdt, with all the plates used destroyed (thus later printings are quite different). Folio sized, 13 by 10", 33 by 25 cm. Bound by Kelly & Sons, London. 138 color plates, some double and/or folding plates, and a total of 382 plates in the four volumes. One of the most beautiful bibliographies ever produced, and a definitive bibliography (up to that time) of the subjects covered. Green morocco has shelfwear and rubbing along joints and corners. Volume 1 shows the most wear on the spine, with scuff marks. Still the bindings remain handsome and impos... View More...
