Scevolini - Astrologia - 1565






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Astrologia by Domenico Scevolini, in its 1st edition in this format, published in Venice in 1565 by Giordano Ziletti, bound in hard cover, 66 pages, in Italian (original language: true).
Description from the seller
Interrogating the stars is not a sin: The book that saved astrology from the fire.
Very rare first posthumous edition of the astrological treatise by Domenico Scevolini, printed in Venice by Giordano Ziletti in 1565. A fundamental work for understanding judicial astrology in the Renaissance, the Discourse takes a clear stance against predictive abuses of the discipline, while defending it as a legitimate science and an integral part of the liberal arts. An exemplary document of the tension between faith, scientific knowledge, and moral responsibility in a century of transition.
Market value
Currently offered for sale at $1,667.50. The rarity of the edition and its historical significance make it highly sought after in the scientific and humanistic collectibles market. Cited in the main specialized repertoires: Riccardi, Thorndike, Houzeau-Lancaster, Cantamessa.
Physical description and condition
Binding in cardboard with marbled boards from the 19th century. Woodcut titles, historiated initials, white endpapers. Some stains and marginal browning. Thick paper, good quality printing. Overall well preserved. Pages (2); 2nn. 58; (4).
Full title and author
Discourse by Domenico Scevolini in which, with the authorities of both good and Catholic gentlemen, he demonstrates that judicial astrology is true and very useful.
In Venice, Giordano Ziletti, 1565
Domenico Scevolini
Context and Significance
Scevolini clearly defines the scope of judicial astrology: a predictive practice based on celestial aspects and configurations, which can, however, degenerate if misunderstood or manipulated. The treatise defends astrology as the science of secondary causes, acknowledging its legitimacy if kept within rational and moral limits. Published posthumously, the Discourse fits into the lively sixteenth-century debate among astrology, theology, and mathematical sciences, and is distinguished by its rigor and moderation.
Biography of the Author
Giovanni Domenico Scevolini (Bertinoro, ... – circa 1560) was an Italian mathematician, astrologer, and thinker of the 16th century. Little is known about his biography: after ecclesiastical approval of his works, he undertook long journeys across Europe and was also active as a founder of convents, including one in Bologna, of which he was a guide. His reflections on astrology were characterized by balance and fidelity to scientific reasoning, during a time of increasing tension between science and dogma.
Printing history and circulation
Printed in Venice in 1565 by Giordano Ziletti, known for publishing specialized and controversial texts. The work did not have reprints or widespread circulation and remains very rare. Its posthumous printing was probably favored by a small circle of Scevolini supporters and testifies to the survival of a learned and cautiously defensive astrology in the Counter-Reformation climate.
BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES
Riccardi I, col. 432
Thorndike VI, 124 and following
Houzeau-Lancaster 4893
Cantamessa, Astrology, No. 4069
Ziletti – ICCU
Seller's Story
Interrogating the stars is not a sin: The book that saved astrology from the fire.
Very rare first posthumous edition of the astrological treatise by Domenico Scevolini, printed in Venice by Giordano Ziletti in 1565. A fundamental work for understanding judicial astrology in the Renaissance, the Discourse takes a clear stance against predictive abuses of the discipline, while defending it as a legitimate science and an integral part of the liberal arts. An exemplary document of the tension between faith, scientific knowledge, and moral responsibility in a century of transition.
Market value
Currently offered for sale at $1,667.50. The rarity of the edition and its historical significance make it highly sought after in the scientific and humanistic collectibles market. Cited in the main specialized repertoires: Riccardi, Thorndike, Houzeau-Lancaster, Cantamessa.
Physical description and condition
Binding in cardboard with marbled boards from the 19th century. Woodcut titles, historiated initials, white endpapers. Some stains and marginal browning. Thick paper, good quality printing. Overall well preserved. Pages (2); 2nn. 58; (4).
Full title and author
Discourse by Domenico Scevolini in which, with the authorities of both good and Catholic gentlemen, he demonstrates that judicial astrology is true and very useful.
In Venice, Giordano Ziletti, 1565
Domenico Scevolini
Context and Significance
Scevolini clearly defines the scope of judicial astrology: a predictive practice based on celestial aspects and configurations, which can, however, degenerate if misunderstood or manipulated. The treatise defends astrology as the science of secondary causes, acknowledging its legitimacy if kept within rational and moral limits. Published posthumously, the Discourse fits into the lively sixteenth-century debate among astrology, theology, and mathematical sciences, and is distinguished by its rigor and moderation.
Biography of the Author
Giovanni Domenico Scevolini (Bertinoro, ... – circa 1560) was an Italian mathematician, astrologer, and thinker of the 16th century. Little is known about his biography: after ecclesiastical approval of his works, he undertook long journeys across Europe and was also active as a founder of convents, including one in Bologna, of which he was a guide. His reflections on astrology were characterized by balance and fidelity to scientific reasoning, during a time of increasing tension between science and dogma.
Printing history and circulation
Printed in Venice in 1565 by Giordano Ziletti, known for publishing specialized and controversial texts. The work did not have reprints or widespread circulation and remains very rare. Its posthumous printing was probably favored by a small circle of Scevolini supporters and testifies to the survival of a learned and cautiously defensive astrology in the Counter-Reformation climate.
BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES
Riccardi I, col. 432
Thorndike VI, 124 and following
Houzeau-Lancaster 4893
Cantamessa, Astrology, No. 4069
Ziletti – ICCU
