DE ARTE GYMNASTICA LIBRI SEX.

MERCURIALE, Girolamo. DE ARTE GYMNASTICA LIBRI SEX. Editio novissima, aucta, emendata, et figuris authenticis Christophori Coriolani exornata. Amsterdam: Andreas Frisius, 1672. Six engraved plates (5 folding, 1 double-page), also newly added engraved title and many additional woodcut plates (some full-page) not present in earlier versions, from the work of Justus Lipsius. Square 4to, [viii] 387pp + [41] index and errata; 20th-century paneled calf, unobtrusive ex-library stamp throughout, inserted plates with neat repairs to inner folds verso, title with old ink-stain and 18th-century ownership signed 'Henry Tonge Junr'.
"First illustrated book on gymnastics. It is the foundation-stone of later work on the subjects and it is important for the study of the gymnastics among the ancients, especially significant in discussing the therapeutic value of gymnastics and sports generally for the cure of disease and disability, The pictures show gymnasiums, baths, wrestling, discus hurling, fighting, and other activities of the classical gymnasia.
Girolamo Mercuriale is best known for his contributions to exercise medicine and natural cures. His study of classical medicine focused on diet, exercise and hygiene. In De Arte Gymnastica, he emphasized the importance of exercise for preventing diseases, maintaining health, and curative properties. Refs: Krivatsy 7785. Garrison Morton 1593. Mortimer Italian 302. Brunet III 1646. Wellcome IV, p.116.; N. Siraisi. p. 236.; History, Antiquarianism, and Medicine: The Case of Girolamo Mercuriale; Journal of the History of Ideas, Vol.64, No.2 (2003).