Shiltei HaGibborim. Mantua, 1612. First Edition

Shiltei HaGibborim, large composition about the structure of the Beit HaMikdash, the order of the sacrificial offerings, with chapters on various sciences, by Rabbi Avraham HaRofeh of Sha'ar Aryeh. Mantua, 1612. First edition.
Unique work including 90 chapters about the form of the Temple building and its vessels as well as the priestly vestments. The author inserts topics in various scientific fields into the text, including medicine, zoology, botany and chemistry. Later in the book there are three parts with separate title pages about the sacrificial services. There is an interesting musical description of the Simchat Beit HaSho'evah, including an orderly list of musical instruments and the precise sequence of their use. There is also a special schedule arranged by day of the week for annual study of Torah, Prophets and Writings, mishnah, gemarah, midrash and Zohar. The Greek alphabet appears on leaf 8. Four sections.
Rabbi Avraham HaRofeh ben Rabbi Eliezer HaRofeh (Portlauni) [1542-1612] was a sage and famous expert doctor in the duchy of Mantua and all across Italy. He writes his life story at the conclusion of the book, including the stroke he suffered, and that he recovered. He also authored medical books in Latin, including a book requested by the Duke of Mantua.
More material about the book is included with this lot.
12, 186 leaves, 28 cm. Light blemish on the title page. Stains and reinforcements in the first 5 leaves. Dismantled binding and loose leaves. The rest of the leaves in the book are in very fine condition.