Bidspirit auction | [HISTORY] - FONTANINI Giusto (San

[HISTORY] - FONTANINI Giusto (San Daniele del Friuli, 1666 - Rome, 1736) - “Ex dono auctoris — Fontanini’s Antiquities of Horta” - FONTANINI, Giusto. De Antiquitatibus Hortae, coloniae Etruscorum. Libri duo. Rome, Francesco Gonzaga, 1708. 4to (244x 180 mm). [12], 512 pp. With engraved title vignette, folding engraved map of the Ager Hortanus in Tuscia suburbicaria, double-page engraved view of Horta, and 4 plates and illustrations in the text. Contemporary vellum, manuscript title on spine. First edition of this richly illustrated antiquarian study by Giusto Fontanini (1666–1736), prelate, literary scholar and Vatican librarian. The work reconstructs the topography, monuments, and history of the ancient Etruscan colony of Horta (modern Orte, in Lazio), drawing upon inscriptions, archival documents, and antiquities. The fine plates include a detailed map of the surrounding territory and a panoramic view of the city on the Tiber. This copy is of exceptional interest as an ex dono auctoris, inscribed by Fontanini on the title-page: “Joh. Antonij Astorji S. D. Auctoris”. A complete copy in perfect condition, with all maps and plates present, wide margins, and preserved in its contemporary vellum binding with manuscript spine title. An outstanding association copy of a major antiquarian work on Etruria, personally presented by the author.