APIANUS, Petrus (1495-1552). Cosmographicus liber. Antwerp: R. Bollaert, 1529.

Small 4to (191 x 152 mm). Woodcut globe on title, numerous woodcut illustrations and diagrams, woodcut historiated initials and publisher's device at end (lacking volvelles). (Dampstaining and browning throughout, mostly near margins, title chipped at outer margin with reinforcements on verso, O4 remargined, D3 with vertical tear repaired, still with some splitting and ghosting from old repairs, D4 also with some repairs and browning). Early paper over boards with a tree calf design, rebacked (extremities rubbed, corners a bit worn). Provenance: several leaves of contemporary notes bound in, also contemporary marginalia at I2 (“De America”); 20th century notes and material on front endpapers including original catalogue note.

RARE SECOND EDITION WITH AN EARLY MAP OF AMERICA SHOWN AS TWO DISCONNECTED CONTINENTS. After its first publication in 1524, Peter Apian's work next appeared in 1529 in an improved edition by his student, Gemma Frisius (this copy being the first edition published by Frisius when he was only 21). Providing a layman's introduction to astronomy, geography, cartography, surveying, navigation and mathematical instruments, it became one of the most popular texts of its day and acted as an outstanding advertisement for the wares in Gemma's instrument shop. Importantly, it described America in part 2, dating the discovery 1497 and stating that Amerigo Vespucci gave the continent his name. Harrisse 148; Sabin 1745.