Ludovico Ariosto

Italian Parnassus – 14 illustrated eighteenth-century volumes – Antonio Zatta, Venice, 1785 – Complete Orlando furioso Interesting group of 14 original eighteenth-century volumes belonging to the famous literary collection Parnaso Italiano, published in Venice by Antonio Zatta e figli. The edition is particularly appreciated for its rich iconographic apparatus, consisting of numerous copper engravings that illustrate episodes and characters from the works. Bibliographic data Work: Parnaso Italiano Publisher: Antonio Zatta e figli Place of printing: Venice Date appearing on the title pages photographed: 1785 Era: eighteenth century Language: Italian Lot contents: 14 volumes Period leather bindings decorated, with spine labels bearing titles and numbering Volumes present Series numbers: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 31, 41, 47, 49, 50, 52, 53 and 55. Particularly significant is the presence of the five consecutive volumes, nos. 18 to 22, containing Ludovico Ariosto’s Orlando furioso, complete in its five-volume articulation. The set also includes theatrical works, poems, and compositions by various authors of the Italian literary tradition, including texts by Metastasio and burlesque works. Illustrations Numerous copper engravings with scenes from the literary works, portraits and decorative vignettes. The photographed plates show good readability and well-preserved engraving details. Conditions Period bindings with evident signs of time: abrasions, missing covering on the spines, wear to the headcaps and corners, defects to the labels and hinges. Interiors with natural aging of yellowing, occasional stains and foxing; the pages and engravings examined appear overall legible. Note on completeness: the lot does not constitute the complete collection of the Parnaso Italiano. Orlando furioso is present in its five volumes; a systematic collation of all sheets and engravings of the individual volumes has not been carried out. The photographs are an integral part of the description. An ensemble of notable interest for collectors of Italian literature, illustrated books, and eighteenth-century Venetian engravings.

Estimate:£211.28

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