Lot N. 283
VIDARI, Giovanni Maria. Il Viaggio in Pratica.
Venice, printed by Luigi Pavini, 1753 (MDCCLIII). Fourth edition, revised and expanded. Duodecimo (small pocket format, typical of travel guides). Contemporary plain wrapper in simple pasteboard, with handwritten title and date on the upper cover.
Details of the work:
The full title reads: “Il Viaggio in Pratica, o sia Istruzione generale, e ristretta per tutte quelle Persone, che volessero viaggiare per tutte le Strade, e Poste di Europa” (“The Practical Journey, or General and Concise Instruction for All Those Persons Who Wish to Travel Along All the Roads and Post Routes of Europe”). The author, Giovanni Maria Vidari, boasted exceptional experience as a courier of the Most Serene Republic of Venice, making the information contained extremely accurate and based on direct, firsthand knowledge.
The work is dedicated to Marco Foscarini, Knight and Procurator of St. Mark (who would become Doge of Venice in 1762). This edition contains the “First Part of Italy,” with a detailed listing of post stations, distances, and practical advice for the Grand Tour.
Historical importance:
A rare testimony to 18th-century transport logistics. Vidari provides information on the “poste cambiate,” that is, updated routes for horses and carriages, making the book an indispensable tool for travelers of the time and, today, for territorial and transportation historians.
Condition:
A genuine, untouched copy, “in its original state.” The original wrapper shows signs of wear and dust, consistent with a book intended to be carried while traveling. Internally, the leaves retain their deckle edges, with light foxing and signs of use, but the volume remains overall sound and fully legible.
Why is it interesting?
The Author: Venetian couriers were the “GPS” of the 18th century; their knowledge of European roads was unparalleled.
The Format: A book designed to fit in a pocket or carriage, surviving for nearly 300 years.
The Dedication’s Addressee: The connection with Marco Foscarini places the book at the very heart of Venetian political history.