This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/24/2024
HERO OF ALEXANDRIA (fl. 60 AD). Spiritali di Herone Alessandrino. Urbino: Appresso Bartholomeo, e Simone Ragusii Fratelli Con Licenza de Superiori, 1592. Gilt-stamped leather spine over blue-black marbled boards. Woodcut to title page. Illustrated profusely with woodcuts accompanying instructions for various feats of pneumatics and natural magic involving pressurized water and gas, fire, and other substances. Small 4to. [4 leaves], pp. 1—82. Dampstained in lower corner (primarily to front half of text block), foxed. Binding somewhat weak and chipped. Gift inscription to Dr. Dawes on ffep.
An important work that includes not only the first published suggestion of the steam engine, but, apropos of conjuring, methods for steam-powered automata, the miraculous opening and closing of temple doors, statues that pour endless quantities of liquids, and other “heavenly” marvels.