Magic

1795 · ref. ST20614 — Venice: Giuseppe Orlandelli 1795. Fourth Edition. 180 x 114 mm. 7 x 4 5/8". 154 pp 1 leaf. Pedestrian 19th century half vellum over pink marbled paper boards smooth spine with old ink lettering. WITH 16 ENGRAVED PLATES SHOWING MAGIC TRICKS and numerous diagrams in the text. Tomash & Williams A56; Riccardi I 15. Marbled paper a little chafed title washed first and last leaf a bit soiled and with repairs at inner and outer margins but no text affected half a dozen other leaves with minor repairs or mounted isolated small smudges or corner creases but still an acceptable copy of a book expected to be found in poor shape--the text clean the impression of the engravings crisp and the binding solid. This is a pleasing copy of a rather scarce collection of mathematical puzzles magic tricks and illusions abounding with illustrations and diagrams. Our author Bolognese architect and engineer Giuseppe Antonio Alberti 1712-68 had a varied career which is reflected in his literary output: his publications discuss civil engineering pyrotechnics mathematics and factories among other topics. Described by Tomash and Williams as "the type of book that mischievous uncles like to own" the present work begins with a study of amusing and unusual arithmetic equations and puzzles before discussing magic tricks and illusions including card tricks dice games and even complex stage illusions involving specialized equipment. These are illustrated with a series of delightful copper engravings with labelled mechanisms sometimes operated by lively little figures or disembodied hands with ruffled sleeves. "Giuochi" was first published in Bologna in 1747 and remained in print for a further 20 years after the present edition. Because this is the kind of book that would have been subjected to uncareful use early editions are difficult to find in the attractive condition seen here. Giuseppe Orlandelli unknown