ALBUMASAR (787-886). Introductorium in astronomium. Translated from Arabic by Hermannus Dalmata (fl. c.1140-50). Augsburg: Erhard Ratdolt, 7 February 1489.

A beautifully hand-colored copy of the first edition. Albumasar was the leading astrologer of his day who devoted himself not only to practical prognostications and reading of horoscopes but also to expounding the philosophical and historical justifications of the science. The Introductorium is a Latin translation (with some abridgements) from the Arabic Kitab al-madkhal al-kabir; it opens with the philosophical justification and continues to cover the characteristics of the stars and zodiacal signs, the influence of the planets and their astrological natures, and astrological lots. Transmitted to the West in two Latin translations from the 12th century, it was hugely influential on European philosophy of the later Middle Ages and Renaissance. The earlier and complete translation was made by John of Seville, the later—published here—by Herman of Carinthia. HC *612; GW 840; BMC II, 382 (IA. 6683-4); BSB-Ink. A-230; Goff A-359; Klebs 38.1; Schreiber 3075.

Quarto (214 x 155). 70 leaves. Initials and 46 woodcut illustrations, hand-colored, rubricated throughout (a little browning, title leaf with small marginal loss at corner and repaired tear, old tabs). Modern half vellum over marbled boards (some rubbing, a little bowing with vellum lifting a little from front board). Custom chemise and quarter morocco slipcase.

The physical description for this lot was updated on 1/28. The coloring is not contemporary.