Title: Libro di Marco Aurelio con l'horologio, de principi. Distinto in Quatro Volume, 1568
Author: Antonio de Guevara
Publisher: Venetia, appresso Francesco Portonaris
Condition: Very Good
A scarce, mid 16th century edition of the Book of Marcus Aurelius, as well as the Dial of Princes.
Originally dedicated to Charles V with its initial publication in 1528-1529 in Spain, the works contributed to the rediscovery and rehabilitation of Emperor Marcus Aurelius’ image during the Renaissance. Using what is a fictionalized biography of the emperor supposedly discovered in a manuscript in the Medici library, De Guevara presents a treatise on princely quality and behaviour based on the example set by Marcus Aurelius, lauded as the archetypal learned prince and leader of men. The text instructs the importance of princely piety, marriage, and governance of the state, while the fourth book examines how a prince should govern at court and at home, including alcohol and sobriety.
There is a large half page woodcut in the third book, and a smaller quarter page woodcut as well as four small woodcut medallions to the fourth.
The volume has been finely bound in 18th century calf, with gilt lettering, and a title to the front cover.
To the front pastedown is a large ex-libris, with the motto of the Accademia della Crusca and a small noble coat of arms.
USTC records 20 existing copies of this edition in libraries.
Four parts in one finely bound volume in quarto, (26)+88, (4)+95+(1), (4)+114, (4)+61+(1) leaves
This volume is in very good shape, with minor rubbing and wear to the binding. There is some foxing and staining throughout.