The pages are unnumbered; the collation-register, printed on the last page of text, reads: * a b c d e f g h i K l m n o p. Tutti sono quaderni fuor che *, che è duerno, & p, che è terno.
The colophon gives the name of the printer-publisher: 'In Vinegia, nell'anno M. D. XLV. nelle case de figlioli di Aldo.'
The work is dedicated by Castiglione to 'Michel De Sylva Vescovo Di Viseo'.
References
P. Burke, The fortunes of the Courtier (1995).
Catalogue of the Ahmanson-Murphy Aldine collection at U.C.L.A. (1991); G. Orlandi, Aldo Manuzio editore (2 v., 1975); University of Cambridge, Catalogue Of Books Printed On The Continent Of Europe, 1501-1600, ed. H.M. Adams (1967), v.I. C931.
Summary Note
Here Castiglione attempts to define the attributes and manners of an ideal courtier. His book was widely read, by artists among others. In Rome Castiglione was a friend of Raphael, who painted his portrait.
The only decoration is the device of printer-publisher Aldus Manutius (the name 'Aldus' flanking a dolphin and anchor), which is printed on the title page and the last page of the book.
Provenance
Purchased for RA Library in 1871 (see 'Library Report for the Year 1871', RA Annual Report, Appendix No. 7, p. 26).
Binding Note
16th-century calf, upper and lower covers having gilt-stamped ruled borders and central fleuron; rebacked in 19th-century, spine lettered 'Cortegiano - Castiglione', 'R.A.' and '1545'.
Subject
Courts and courtiers - Courtesy - Social anthropology - Customs - Italy - History - 16th century
Treatises - Manuals - Italy - 16th century