WIDMANN (called MECHINGER), Johannes

Ain nutzlichs Buchlin von dem Wildpad, gelegen imm furstenthumb Wirtenberg, gemacht von dem Berumpten Doctor Johann Mechinger

      [8] leaves (the last is blank). Small 4to, modern limp vellum (light dampstaining at foot). [Tubingen: T. Anshelm, 1513]. First edition of this early and rare balneological work which describes the mineral baths at Wildbad and their benefits. Wildbad is a watering place in Wurttemberg, situated in the Enz gorge in the Black Forest. Its thermal alkaline springs have a temperature of 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. Widmann (1440-1524), took his master of arts degree at Heidelberg and then went to Italy where he studied medicine at Pavia, Padua, and Ferrara. He received his medical degree at Ulm. Later, Widmann held a series of posts, including physician to Margrave Christoph von Baden and Duke Eberhard von Wurttemberg, city physician at Basel, Strasbourg, and Ulm, and professor of medicine at Tubingen. His tract on syphilis, published in 1497, is considered to be one of the best written in the 15th century. In this work, Widmann describes the medical uses the waters of Wildbad provide in treating gout, rheumatism, and neuralgia. Fine copy. ❧ Durling 4728. Hirsch, V, pp. 925-26. .