6 parts in 2 books in one volume, folio (318 x 210 mm). Woodcut printer's device on title-page; half-page engraved portrait of Fabris on section title of part II; 191 half-page engravings. (Lacking full-page engraved portrait of Christian IV of Denmark). 

Second edition of Fabris's important illustrated fencing manual, with the same engraved illustrations as the first edition executed by Jan van Halbeeck and Francesco Valesio. "The second edition was apparently created using unsold copies of the first edition. The inner and outer sheets of the first signature (including the title page) were replaced, possibly due to damage to all remaining books...Additionally, the colophon on the final page was covered up with a decorative paper patch" as in the present copy (Wiktenauer). "The first book treats thoroughly the question of broad principles and of the more 'academic' actions with the rapier, alone or accompanied with dagger or cloak; it discusses in a very exhaustive manner the relative value of the past and present methods. The second book is one 'where in is demonstrated certain rules with which it will be possible to strike the enemy from the moment the sword is drawn, without halting or waiting any time" (Castle, Schools and Masters of Fence).  Cockle 754 note; Thimm p.97.