Tratado Elemental de la Destreza del Sable

Mexico City: En la Imprenta Arizpe, 1810. Fair.. [14],201,[17]pp., plus twelve (of thirteen) plates. Quarto. Contemporary tree calf, gilt ruled, with gilt-lettered spine label, edges painted red. Spine ends heavily chipped, rear board separating from foot; boards rubbed, moderate edge and corner wear. Defunct library ink stamp to title page. Some worming to initial sections of text, slightly affecting printed area. Scattered staining and foxing. Plates trimmed close at fore-edge, sometimes affecting images; second plate lacking. The first work on fencing written and published in Mexico, featuring eye-catching engravings by Manuel Araoz. The author includes descriptions of various attacks, defenses, proper foot work, posture, and equipment, including detailed descriptions of the fencing sword. He states that his motive in writing the book is to promote the art of self defense, which he stresses is important not only for personal use, but also for other causes, such as the defense of one’s nation. The engravings depict over twenty positions and maneuvers, as well as the critical pieces of equipment. According to Medina, the volume was published in 1810 rather than 1809, as stated on the title page, because of delays by the engraver. A wounded copy of an important work in a contemporary binding, with attractive illustrations by a significant Mexican engraver. The Mathes copy brought $3750 at Swann in 2014.
Medina, Mexico 10251. Palau 95016.