History of Serpents and Dragons

Summary of the Privilege of His Sacred Imperial Majesty

By the Privilege of His Sacred Imperial Majesty, it is provided that no one may reprint any of the Histories of Ulisse Aldrovandi of Bologna original: "Vlyſsis Aldrouandi Bonon."; Aldrovandi (1522–1605) was a celebrated naturalist and physician from Bologna which treat of Animals—and consequently also of Serpents and Dragons—either in whole or in part, without the will and express consent of the Author or his heirs. This restriction lasts for a period of ten years, beginning from the day the volume is completed. Furthermore, no one may sell copies printed elsewhere, under the penalty—whenever such a person is caught—of the forfeiture of all books and a fine of ten marks of pure gold. These terms are set forth more extensively in the Imperial diploma diploma: a formal charter or official document granting a right or privilege issued in the Royal Castle at Prague on the first day of April, in the year one thousand five hundred and ninety-nine.

Rudolf II, Emperor. Rudolf II (1552–1612) was the Holy Roman Emperor known for his patronage of the arts and sciences.

Rudolf Coraduz. The Imperial Vice-Chancellor.