COLUMNA, FRANCISCUSHypnerotomachia PoliphiliCOLUMNA, FRANCISCUS. Hypnerotomachia Poliphili. Printer: Aldo Manuzio. Venice, December 1499. Size: Folio. 234 leaves (468 pages). 192 prints attributed to the most famous artists of 15th century Italy (mainly Giovanni Bellini).
The author, who died in 1527 at the age of ninety-four, left us this enigmatic love story which is and always will be a typographical product deserving of praise and acclaim.
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A truly
splendid edition, possibly the finest example of the Venetian printing works of
Aldo Manuzio. Although none of his other items were remarkable from a
typographical viewpoint, it cannot be denied that this work is a masterpiece of
the art of printing combined with its attractive roman type, beautiful
illustrations and the fine craftsmanship of the printer. A possible explanation
could be that of all Aldo's major works, this is the only book that was
commissioned, consequently the financial support received would have enabled
him to dedicate time and effort to the minute details of this magnificent item
produced in his printing works. The name of the artist responsible for these
marvellous and unforgettable illustrations is unknown, but he was undoubtedly
an remarkably creative and brilliantly sensitive artist.
-Our edition: Valencia, 2000.
Coedited with the Lázaro Galdiano Foundation Library.
E.Mail: Vicent García Editores, S.A.