BIBIENA, Giuseppe Galli da (1696-1757). Architetture, e Prospettive, dedicate alla Maestá de Carlo Sesto. Augsburg: Andrea Pfeffel, 1740.

The first edition of Bibiena's "brilliant baroque compositions" (Fowler). The plates depict catafalques, theatrical sets, a Passion series in architectural settings and decorations for the Riding School at Vienna for the marriage of Archduchess Mariana to Prince Charles of Lorraine. Copies are known which have a part VI with an additional plate. Berlin 4152; Cicognara 431; Fowler 136.

Five parts in one volume, folio (552 x 388mm). Engraved title with vignette within ornamental border [wrapper?], engraved dedication and portrait, 47 (of 50, lacking plate numbers 10 from part 2, 7 from part 4, and 5 from part 9) engraved plates by A. & J. Schmuzer, J.A. Pfeffel, L. Zucchi and S. Kleiner after Bibiena (4 plates with holes of varying sizes affecting image, 3 plates with tears repaired on verso, spotting and browning throughout). Later half morocco with gilt morocco title piece on front board (rubbed, corners bumped). Provenance: signature that appears twice – Arthur Loomis, Louisville architect who designed the original building for the J. B. Speed Memorial Museum (bookplate of the J. B. Speed Art Museum, Louisville, Kentucky, recording the gift of Mr. Loomis' Estate, 1935) – J. B. Speed Art Museum, Louisville, Kentucky (white manuscript shelf marks on spines, penciled shelf numbers on verso of title; sold Christie's, New York, 15 November 2011).