An elaborate engraved title-page. The text is framed within a classical stone arch. Atop the arch's entablature is a terrace featuring a formal parterre garden with geometric flowerbeds and potted shrubs. Three figures stand or sit on a central pedestal on the terrace. The frieze of the arch contains the motto "Public Security" original Latin: "SECVRITAS PVBLICA". The spandrels of the arch are decorated with bundles of agricultural tools, including shovels, rakes, and scythes. Through the structure, rural landscapes with trees are visible on both sides. At the bottom left, the engraver's signature "C. de Mallery made this" original Latin: "C. de Mallery fecit." is inscribed.

PUBLIC SECURITY

original Latin: "SECVRITAS PVBLICA." This motto suggests that a stable nation relies upon the success and safety of its agricultural foundations.

THE

THEATER OF AGRICULTURE

AND FIELD HUSBANDRY

by OLIVIER DE SERRES

LORD OF PRADEL

Second Edition, revised

and expanded by the Author.

Represented here is everything required

and necessary to properly Establish,

Govern, Enrich, and Embellish,

the

RUSTIC HOUSE

"Maison Rustique" refers to the concept of the self-sufficient country estate, a popular subject in Renaissance literature.

IN PARIS.

1603.

At the shop of ABRAHAM SAVGRAIN, St. James Street

across from St. Benedict’s, at the sign of the two Vipers

With privilege of the King and the Emperor

A "privilege" was an early form of copyright, granting the publisher exclusive rights to print the book.