[VENICE]. Over 180 'parti prese' (official decrees), dating from the second half of the 16th century to the mid-18th century. Extensive collection of Venetian official decrees spanning from the early 16th century to the early 18th century. These are official printed documents issued by the Republic of Venice, reflecting the decisions taken by the Venetian governing bodies - from the Great Council to the Senate, from the Provveditori to the Councils of Justice - on civil, political, economic, or religious matters. Generally a few pages long, some, especially those concerning regulations, may extend to several dozen pages; these texts were posted or distributed to public officials and served to communicate laws, prohibitions, or decisions relating to events and specific cases, including matters of economy, justice, epidemic response, warfare, ceremonial conduct, and moral codes. Subjects covered include smuggling, commercial and banking regulations, agriculture, the military, fortresses, duels and arms, crimes and murders, blasphemy, food and provisions, the legal profession, gold and payments, forgery and counterfeiting, wool guild regulations, masks, noble titles, public works, monasteries and nuns, ships and fleets, shipwrecks, foreigners and merchants, and much more. Over 180 printed items, each comprising two or more leaves, some disbound and some bound in a single volume (generally in good condition, with occasional tears and minor defects). Please contact the department for a photo gallery showing the title-pages of all included decrees. The lot is sold as not subject to return. (1)