CAESIUS (Bernardus). - Lot 16

CAESIUS (Bernardus). Mineralogia, sive Naturalis philosophiae thesauri, in quibus metallicae concretionis medicatorúmque fossilium miracula, terrarum pretium, colorum & pigmentorum apparatus concretorum succorum virtus lapidum atque gemmarum dignitas continentur, in Lyon, chez J. & P. Prost, en 1636. In folio in full calf, gilt fillets, ribbed spine, gilt fleurons and fillets in the boxes (period binding) of (12), 626 pages and (60). Rare first edition (second printing with dedication to Charles de Neufville, published posthumously from notes left by the author, Cesi (1581-1630), a Jesuit professor in Modena and Parma. An extensive survey and overview of mineralogical knowledge at the time, with a wealth of information on paleontological specimens and precious stones. The book is a scientific presentation, but also presents new ideas, reformulations of earlier authors, observations and superstitious beliefs (e.g. mining is considered dangerous because of spirits lurking underground...). The author notes that the study of mineralogy helps to understand the Bible; that this discipline provides medicines and silver, ornaments for religious purposes, tools used in agriculture, industry, painting, music and alchemy. It is for these reasons that Cesi declares mineralogy to be a true philosophy, worthy of careful study... Binding broken. Fresh inside. Ex-libris in period pen. Rare.