Early Emblems of Divine Love)

Amoris Divini Emblemata (Emblems of Divine Love).

      - Antwerp: Christopher Plantin and Balthasar Moretus, based on the work of Otho van Veen (Vaenius, the Latinized version of the name), 1660. Second edition (first edition was 1615Ñthey sure waited a long time for the second edition; this 1660 edition is highly important and is found in institutions and major collections). 4to. All edges tinted red. Bound in full leather (relatively recentÑat least relative to 1660) with color leather paste label on spine with title and translation. 128 numbered pages plus added endpapers from the binding project. The pages are in clean, lovely condition (some faint marginal water staining on a few pages at the back) and the full page pictures are just stunning. There are sixty full-page engravings and an additional engraving on the title page. There is a long and rich history to emblem books that goes back mostly to the 16thÐ18th centuries and this is one of the best known examples of the genre. The text is in Latin, Dutch, French, and Spanish This particular set of emblems is organized around the relationship between the individual and their soul, both represented as children (hence the omnipresent cherubs throughout the images). We tend to think that we moderns have a unique perspective and wisdom about the big questions of the universe but in fact, that is hubris as many great thinkers and artists struggled with these same issues long ago. The engravings are beautiful with a delicate harmony reflective of van VeenÕs style which was certainly classically inspired. Otho van Veen (1556Ð1629) was the professor of P. P. Rubens and was highly regarded in his time, especially for works of an allegorical nature, and he had several highly prestigious appointments and positions during his lifetime. A striking book from another era that serves to underscore the continuity of lives and views of the universe. First Edition.