Enarrationes Vocum Priscarum in Libris de Re Rustica
Lyon: Seb. Gryphium, 1541. First edition. 8vo, [84]ff. Printer's device to title page. Somewhat crudely bound in leather-backed paper boards, spine lettered in gilt. Page block toned, edge chipping to first two leaves, lacking rear endpaper. Upper joint split along top half, but holding, boards worn and rubbed. A good, complete copy.
Very interesting humanist text which is devoted to the strange and archaic vocabulary found in the Roman agricultural writers Cato, Varro, Columella, and Palladius. The alphabetical glossary explains obscure terms relating to agriculture, animals, plants, and rural life, including much on folklore and ancient ritual. Dog sacrifices, Egyptian embalming, Bacchic ritual shouts, poisonous herbs, magical animal lore, and phallic imagery are included topics. Scarce.
USTC 140190. Item #9873
Price: $250.00