4to (233 x 187mm). Additional engraved allegorical title, engraved title vignette, 7 engraved plates (5 folding), numerous woodcut illustrations in text. (Some minor spotting and soiling.) Contemporary vellum. 

 

First published in 1569, it is "one of the earliest books to discuss the therapeutic value of gymnastics and sports generally for the cure of disease and disability, and an important study of gymnastics in the ancient world" (Garrison-Morton 1986); the second edition of 1573 was the first illustrated book on gymnastics, containing woodcuts by Cristoforo Coriolano after Pirro Ligorio, which also appear here. Brunet III:1646; Wellcome IV, p. 116.