PTOLEMAEUS, Claudius (c.100-170). La Geografia. Translated by Girolamo Ruscelli. Venice: Vincenzo Valgrisi, 1561.

First edition of Ruscelli's translation of Ptolemy. The Renaissance rediscovery of the Greek text of Ptolemy’s Geography captured the imagination of thinkers across disciplines. Although none of the original maps survived antiquity, Renaissance cartographers rose to the challenge of re-illustrating the famous treatise. Here the maps are mostly enlarged versions of those by Giacomo Gastaldi, originally from the 1548 Italian edition printed by Bascarini (see preceding lot). Some maps have been corrected and four maps have been added—including the new map of Brazil. The world maps include an early depiction of the world in twin hemispheres (Shirley 110) a navigational chart (Shirley 111). The translator, Girolamo Ruscelli, was the founder the first European scientific society: the Accademia Segreta in Naples. Adams P-2235; Phillips, Atlases 371; Sabin 66503.

Three parts in one, quarto (215 x 161mm). Greek and Roman types. Woodcut printer's device on title, historiated woodcut initials, woodcut diagrams, 64 double-page engraved maps (a little pale marginal dampstain, a handprint on 2V1, marginal stain to Asia IIII map and small centerfold stain to Asia XI map). Contemporary limp vellum with yapp edges, recycled manuscript spine supports (pastedowns completely lifted exposing structure, tear from lower pastedown, mild soiling). Provenance: manuscript titling on bottom edge and spine in three hands – contemporary marginal notes.