Opere di Galileo Galilei linceo, nobile fiorentino ... . Al serenissimo Ferdinando 2. gran duca di Toscana. Bologna, 1655-1656
The publication, developed in collaboration between the bolognese publisher Carlo Manolessi and Vincenzo Viviani one of the last disciples of Galileo in Arcetri, aimed to recover Galileo's published and unpublished writings. The image in the frontispiece of the first volume, engraved by Stefano della Bella (1619-1664), depicts theTuscan scientist in his later years indicating to three allegorical figures - probably Mathematics, Astronomy and Optics - the coat of arms of the Medici, depicted as a representation of the heliocentric solar system. Jupiter will appear surrounded by four satellites that the scientist had discovered in 1610 and dedicated to the Medici. In this edition there is also a portrait of Galileo by the Umbrian engraver Francesco Villamena. The work, dedicated to the Grand Duke of Tuscany Ferdinando II de' Medici, retains the Medici coat of arms on the front plate of the binding in limp vellum.
Location: Firenze, Biblioteca Museo Galileo