Johann Dryander et al., 1537

DRYANDER, Johann (1500-1560) [and Joannis REGIOMONTANUS (1436-1476), Bonetus de LATIS (fl. 1500), and ‘M.T.’]. Annulorum trium diversi generis instrumentorum astronomicorum componendi ratio atque usus [and others]. Marburg: Eucharius Cervicornus, 1537.

First edition of this assembly of texts on Dryander's ring-dial, with large woodcuts. A precursor of the equatorial, it was intended as a navigational aid which could be adjusted to different latitudes—including the Moluccas and Hispaniola. Dryander had published his first account a few months earlier in 1536, but quickly reprinted it with three other related texts, describing other forms of astronomical ring-dials, in order to defend himself against the charges of plagiarism. The first of these additional works is a letter from Regiomontanus to Cardinal Bessarion, the second a short treatise by Bonetus de Latis, Jewish physician to Pope Alexander VI, and the third by an anonymous author identified only as ‘M.T.’ Dryander was a Marburg professor of mathematics and medicine, and it primarily known for his anatomical works. VD 16, E-674; Adams D-940; BM STC German p 255; Zinner 1661; Tomash & Williams D-66

Four parts in one, quarto (206 x 154mm). Gatherings K and I transposed. Large woodcut of armillary sphere on title, other woodcut illustrations and diagrams throughout, devices, and initials (two small patches of text on A1 lifted and on facing page due to glue adhesion, subtle repair to lower blank margin L3). Later limp vellum. Provenance: washed marginal comment on one leaf - Giancarlo Beltrame (his sale, 30 November 2016, lot 407).