The Metallic Museum of the Great Ulisse Aldrovandi

I, the appointed Censor of books for the Most Eminent and Reverend Lord Cardinal Ludovisi, Archbishop and Prince of Bologna Cardinal Ludovico Ludovisi (1595–1632) was a powerful patron of the arts and sciences in Bologna, have examined this Metallic Museum of the great Ulisse Aldrovandi original: "Vlyssis Aldrouandi", which was compiled by the most distinguished Bartholomew Ambrosini Ambrosini was the custodian of the botanical garden and Aldrovandi's successor, a diligent seeker of sublunary matters. Within this work, while the properties of minerals are narrated with subtlety and singular learning, the admirable secrets of Nature shine forth, explained with elegant erudition. Furthermore, because I have found nothing in it inconsistent with the Christian faith or good morals—indeed, I found many things written with wonderful piety for the cultivation of minds—I judge that it may be committed to the press and granted the light of publication with the greatest benefit and utility to students.

Don Andreas Cuttica, Cleric Regular of St. Paul The Barnabites, Rector of the Penitentiary, acting on behalf of the Most Eminent and Reverend Lord Cardinal Archbishop.

I have reviewed this volume inscribed with the name of the extraordinary Ulisse Aldrovandi, titled On Minerals and Stones, which was elaborated through a course of most learned nightly vigils original: "vigiliarum," referring to scholarly work done by lamplight and reduced to a more abundant doctrine for those seeking knowledge by the most excellent Lord Bartholomew Ambrosini, by order of the Reverend Father Inquisitor of Bologna. It is truly an outstanding work that highly commends its author; for in it, through all-encompassing erudition and wonderful genius, the healthy and secret doctrine of minerals is penetrated and handed down. Therefore, having read this through and weighed it attentively, I have found nothing discordant with the faith or good morals. For this reason, for the greater glory of God, the utility of mankind, and the memory of such a great man, I deem it best that it be brought to light.

The aforementioned attestations standing, let it therefore be printed.
Friar Ludovico Maria Calcho, Master of Sacred Theology and Vicar General of the Holy Office The Inquisition of Bologna.