PHYSICA CURIOSA, Sive Mirabilia Naturae et Artis Libris XII Comprehensa

Herbipoli (Wurzburg), 1697. Hardcover. Browning throughout both volumes, mostly affecting the text only in the first volume but to the plates as well in the second. Circular spot about the size of a silver dollar on the front cover of the first volume where the vellum is lacking; otherwise, the binding is in very good shape. Overall, Very Good. Two quarto (7" x 8-5/8") volumes bound in contemporary vellum with titles in ink on the spines; [xl], 676; [677]-1389 [21] pages. With the half-title page, engraved title page, and 60 engraved plates, 6 of them folding. Considered to be one of Schott’s most comprehensive works, with in-depth discussions on angels, demons, witchcraft, satyrs, as well as animals and physical deformities in human beings. Striking plates including many depicting imagined beings.

Gaspar Schott (1608-1666) joined the Society of Jesus in 1627 and began his studies at the University of Wurzburg. The 30-Years War forced him out of Germany, and he eventually traveled to Rome and worked with Athanasius Kircher, his most important mentor and model. Schott eventually returned to Germany and settled in Augsburg where he taught until his death. Schott was in communication with many natural philosophers of his day and was widely respected for his writings.