Emblemata of Zinne-werck: voorghestelt, in beelden, ghedichten, en breeder uijt-legginghen, tot uijt-druckinghe, en vergeteringhe vam verscheyden feylen onfer eeuwe.

Rare first edition, illustrated with an engraved title page and 51 emblems by Adriaen van der Venne, engraved by Wil. Passe, J. Gelle, Cri. Blon, A. Poel and J.S. [Swelinck]. A reprint was issued in 1661; this first edition circulated only among a privileged elite and was not made available to the general public.
Late 18th- or early 19th-century caramel calf-backed binding with small corners. Spine with raised bands and gilt fillets. Brown morocco title label. Upper joint split at head and tail. Some rubbing. Margin of p. 108 restored over 6 cm. A few faint spots of foxing.

Each emblem is accompanied by a one- or two-line motto, followed by an engraving and an epigram. These three elements form the emblem and are followed by a prose commentary. Although this prose may seem to diminish the evocative power of the image, it is characteristic of the Dutch Reformed Church. These commentaries include numerous Latin and French passages, and often quote French poets such as Ronsard, as well as translations of Pindar. The emblems are often described as realistic, drawing inspiration from many aspects of bourgeois society and paying close attention to contemporary dress. Notably, one of the earliest depictions of a telescope appears here.