An elaborate engraved frontispiece features an architectural monument design. At the top center, the coat of arms of Pope Sixtus V (featuring a lion holding a branch, with a diagonal band and stars) is surmounted by the papal tiara and crossed keys, flanked by two reclining winged angels holding shields with the same arms. Below the arms is a flowing ribbon with a Latin motto.

DEDICATED TO THE MOST HOLY LORD, OUR POPE SIXTUS V, SUPREME PONTIFF.

The main structure consists of two large Corinthian columns decorated with garlands of fruit and hanging architectural tools, such as squares and plumb bobs. In the center of the monument is an octagonal frame containing a portrait of Domenico Fontana; he is depicted with a beard and wearing a ruff, holding a small scale model of an obelisk. On the table before him are a compass and a square. The portrait is encircled by an inscription identifying him. At the base of the monument is a large rectangular tablet containing the title of the book, flanked by two standing putti and two smaller versions of the papal coat of arms. The entire page is framed by a decorative border.

OF THE METHOD USED IN TRANSPORTING THE VATICAN OBELISK AND THE WORKS EXECUTED BY OUR LORD SIXTUS V. BOOK I.

Natalis Bonifacius Sibenicen Dalmatinus Natalis Bonifacius of Sibenik, Dalmatia engraved this. Rome. 1589. With Privilege of the Supreme Pontiff.