FARRA, Alessandro (16th century). Settenario dell'humana riduttione. Venice: Zanetti, 1571. Scarce first edition (not recorded at auction, RBH) of the main work by Farra, member of the Accademia degli Affidati in Pavia and governor of Ascoli and Casale. The treatise divided into seven arguments 'is a typical example of Pythagorean-hermetic literature, in which the themes of the neo-Platonic mathematical tradition and the Kabbalistic tradition are present, clearly influenced by Pico della Mirandola. In particular, in the section entitled ; with a significant phrase ; 'Symbolic philosophy', the author emphasizes the mystical and allegorical value of the numerical combinations found in the Kabbalistic mysteries, Egyptian symbolism, theology and Pythagorean philosophy; these combinations are nothing other than symbolic representations of the profound connections that regulate the harmony, proportionality and beauty of the cosmos'' (Treccani) 8vo, (145 x 95mm). Vignette to title, large allegorical initials (some light waterstains). Later full vellum binding, manuscript title to spine, and edges. Provenance: a few contemporary notes. (1)