Art Funded by you

De re metallica libri XII

Georgius Agricola, 1556

Georgius AgricolaÂ’s volume, De Re Metallica, is the definitive early treatise on mining methods, engineering, chemistry and geology. The woodcuts have been used by nearly every later historian to explain mining life and technology. This first edition copy is a virtually unique book for its period in considering both mining methods and way of life. Agricola (Georg Bauer) was a prolific author across many subjects, both mining related and more general. This work on metal mining in Germany was seen as the major authority of that time and for more than a century afterwards. The museum already has copies of the English translation and this work will augment the quality of the museum research library.

More information

Title of artwork, date

De re metallica libri XII, 1556

Date supported

2010

Medium and material

Paper

Dimensions

32.2 x 21.6 cm

Grant

5313

Total cost

10625

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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