Item 41 is a rare and unusual pamphlet dealing with bites of the poisonous tarantula, and the believed cure - dancing the tarantella. This seems odd to those steeped in today's science and medicine, but for centuries it was believed that the fast-paced, hypnotic, rhythmic dancing was the way to save yourself from the effects of the poisonous spider bite. Retrato de la Tarantula Macho Y Hembra, by Francisco Xavier Cid, recounts the case of Ambrosio Silvano, a young, teenage boy who was hospitalized after being bitten by a tarantula. He was cured by the playing of the music of this traditional Italian folk dance, and letting young Silvano dance to the music. The pamphlet was published in 1787. €1,750 (US $2,489).

 

Item 240 is an aquatint of a New York City street scene from the winter of 1854-55. It was printed in 1857. It depicts lower Broadway, with a public transport sleigh and fire wagon coming down the snowy street, and numerous pedestrians observing the activity. €3,500 (US $4,980).

 

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