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Compiled about
1487-1490, the Codex Trivulzianus records Leonardo's attempt to organize and
arrange that part of the Italian language which deals with science, philosophy
and academic subjects in general.
Many of the
words collected here derive from the Latin language, and almost all of them are
drawn from such famous Renaissance works as Roberto Valturius' De re militari and Luigi Pulci's Vocabulista. Leonardo was to interpret
many of them, giving them new meaning and using them in different contexts.
This is an
exceptional document for the study of that period of the Italian language
during which rules and spellings were not yet firmly established. In addition
to the famous word lists, the Codex Trivulzianus contains an important series
of architectural drawings, which are primarily studies pertaining to a
competition held to complete the construction of Milan cathedral. There is also
substantial evidence of Leonardo's ongoing interest in warfare and weaponry,
and a curious gallery of real and imaginary portraits.
In this
edition the facsimile is accompanied by a volume with the diplomatic and
critical transcription by Anna Maria Brizio and reproductions of invisible
figures revealed by special photographs.
A leather-covered box (size 250 x 360 mm), with gold
stamping, contains the facsimile and a text volume of 138 pages printed on
handmade paper and bound in Fabriano paper.
Also available
in English language in the edition published by Johnson Reprint Corporation,
New York.
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