Nova Alphati Effectio - The Alphabet Newly Described - Theodore De Bry - 1595

"Nova alphati effictio historiis ad singulas literas correspondtibus, et toreumate bryanaeo artificiose in aes incisis illustrata: versibus insuper Latinis et rithmis Germanicis non omnino inconditis"

-Rare First edition of this celebrated illustrated Alphabet by Theodore De Bry.

-Published in Frankfurt in 1595

-Title Page and 19 letters. 18 of 24 Letter designs are present with V provided in duplicate (Missing B, E, G, H, K, N)

-Unbound and fair state overall. Tears and stains with tight trimming to some pages including loss of image (see photos). 

In this rare set, each letter is beautifully engraved and accompanied by a poem. The designs are typical of the late renaissance age with references to the Bible, and Greek and Latin mythology. De Bry was known for being one of the best engravers of his age. His background as a goldsmith allowed him to create detailed copperplate engravings, for which he became famous.

The Letter A shows Adam and Eve tempted with forbidden fruit by the devil with a snakes tail.

Fruit and butterflies, found in many images, demonstrate the beauty but fragility and brevity of life. 

USTC - 14 copies only