[Jordanus Nemorarius]

Arithmetica decem libris demonstrata. Musica libri demostrata quator. Epitome in Libros Arithmeticos diui Seuerini Boetij. Rithmimachie ludus qui et pugna numuroru appellatur

      Paris, H. Estienne, (7 Sept. 1514). 4to (27.3 x 19.2 cm), printed in Gothic type. Title set within woodcut border, full-page woodcut on one page and small woodcut illustrations and diagrams throughout. Many decorative initials. Expertly executed new calf binding in period style. *Historians of mediaeval mathematics agree that Jordanus de Nemore (1225-1260) was one of the most important writers on mathematics in Europe. He was, for example, among the first to use letters to replace numbers in algebraic calculations. But almost nothing is known about his life. This edition of Jordanus' Arithmetica - the first Estienne edition - is a fine example of early sixteenth century printing, complete with numerous mathematical diagrams. It comprises Jordanus' work on the theory of numbers, as well as a treatise on music by le Fevre, an epitome (also by le Fevre) of Boethius' Arithmetica, and an anonymous tract (attributed to John Shirwood) about the arithmetical game of "Rithmimachia". This Estienne edition was printed from settings similar to those used in the first printed edition of 1496. A rare book - ABPC records only 2 copies in the last 30 years. A small hand stamp on verso of title page, Some very small and marginal wormholes at the beginning and end, but not obtrusive in any way. Two small paper repairs to corners of first two leaves. Some near-contemporary marginalia and the text "Jordani Arithmetica" added in ink to title, Estienne's name inked out on title-page and colophon. Provenance: Harvard College Library. Overall a very nice crisp and clean copy of a rare work. Adams, J324; Renouard Estienne, p. 16.