MALPIGHI, MARCELLO. Anatome Plantarum. London: John Martin, 1675-79. 2 vols. in one, folio, 350 x 227 mm., contemporary calf, spine gilt; gutter margins reinforced on engraved frontispiece and title of vol. 1, marginal tear repaired on frontispiece (vol. 1), some very minor marginal dampstaining or spotting. FIRST EDITION. 2 engraved frontispieces, engraved arms of Royal Society on titles, and 100 engraved plates. Henrey 239; Wing M-345; Nissen BBI 1269; Grolier/Horblit 43a.

Details
MALPIGHI, MARCELLO. Anatome Plantarum. London: John Martin, 1675-79. 2 vols. in one, folio, 350 x 227 mm., contemporary calf, spine gilt; gutter margins reinforced on engraved frontispiece and title of vol. 1, marginal tear repaired on frontispiece (vol. 1), some very minor marginal dampstaining or spotting. FIRST EDITION. 2 engraved frontispieces, engraved arms of Royal Society on titles, and 100 engraved plates. Henrey 239; Wing M-345; Nissen BBI 1269; Grolier/Horblit 43a.

First edition of Malpighi's classic work on phytotomy, the foundation along with the work of Grew of plant anatomy. Malpighi was working (simultaneously with Grew) on the microscopic anatomy of plants at Bologna University where he was professor of medicine. "Malpighi acquired great skill as a microscopist; he was also an accurate draughtsman, and his figures of plant anatomy illustrating his work are outstanding. As Miall remarks, 'we are often astonished that so early an investigator should have seen so much and understood so well what he saw'." (Henrey).

Provenance: Philippe de Vilmorin, bookplate -- Robert de Belder.

More from An Important Botanical Library, Part II

View All
View All