MERKEN, Johann

Liber artificiosus alphabeti maioris; oder, Neu inventirtes Kunst- Schreib- und Zeichenbuch

      Joh. Conr. Eyrich 1782-85, Mühlheim am Rhein - Modern half calf Oblong folio . FIRST EDITION of a richly illustrated baroque writing and drawing manual, also containing a variety of miscellaneous information (e. g., formulas and techniques for artists (including materials used, instructions for constructing sundials, practical hints for insect collectors, 1770-71 art auction prices, etc.). Included are illustrations of a perpetual wall calendar with details of all the moving parts; the use of optical instruments for making silouettes; monograms templates; emblems; alchemical formulas; geometrical and astronomical figures; depicting emotion; making optical plates. A beautifully illustrated work with the plates in fine dark impressions. The artist makes extensive use of borders to illustrate various fine detail of alphabets, instruments, scroll work, decoration, etc., etc 2 volumes in 1. [4], 22; 66 pages. With 56 plates engraved by Heinrich Hugo Cöntgen after Merken showing writing specimens within baroque historiated borders, Hebrew and Greek alphabets, chemical symbols, astronomical diagrams, architectural orders, etc. Small marginal dampstain in blank margin of last text leaf. Very nice copy. § Berlin 4925; Bonacini 1169; Doede 213/1- 2; Harvard/Becker 175; Ekström/Hagelin, pages 72-73. [Attributes: First Edition]