1st Octavo Ed 1711 Beaumont & Fletcher 7 Vol Works Set W/ Copper Engraved Plates
$ 1563.25
Description
A highly collectible and early 18th-century complete set of The Works of Mr. Francis Beaumont and Mr. John Fletcher , published in London circa 1711. This handsome 7-volume octavo (8vo) set is bound in contemporary full calf leather, retaining its original character and integrity. Each volume features engraved plates (“adorn’d with cuts”), along with individual title pages for numerous plays, making this a substantial and visually appealing collection of early English drama. About Beaumont & Fletcher Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher were among the most important playwrights of the English Renaissance. Writing during the Jacobean period, they were contemporaries of William Shakespeare and, in the decades following his death, their plays were actually among the most frequently performed on the English stage. Their collaborative works, such as The Knight of the Burning Pestle and The Spanish Curate, blend comedy, tragedy, and satire, and played a major role in shaping early modern English theatre. This collection represents one of the earliest widely circulated editions of their works, preserving their legacy for 18th-century audiences. About Jacob Tonson: This edition was issued by Jacob Tonson, one of the most important and influential publishers in early 18th-century London. Tonson was a central figure in the development of English literary publishing and is closely associated with many of the greatest writers of the period. He was particularly famous for being a part of the various Shakespeare personal reading releases (Made after the printing of the folios). He was the principal publisher for authors such as John Milton, John Dryden, and Joseph Addison, and played a key role in establishing the commercial viability of collected literary works. Tonson was also instrumental in forming what became known as the “Tonson dynasty,” a family publishing enterprise that dominated the London book trade for decades. Editions bearing Tonson’s imprint are widely regarded as significant within the history of English literature, often representing some of the earliest collected or illustrated printings of major authors. His involvement in the publication of Beaumont and Fletcher reflects both the enduring popularity of their plays and Tonson’s role in preserving and disseminating important works of the English Renaissance. About the Illustrations – The Vandergucht Engravers The engraved plates in this edition are characteristic of early 18th-century London book production and are widely attributed to the workshop of Michael Vandergucht and his son Gerard Vandergucht, both highly regarded engravers of their time. Michael Vandergucht, a Flemish-born engraver active in London, was known for producing detailed copperplate illustrations for important literary and classical works. His son Gerard continued and expanded this practice, becoming one of the most prolific book illustrators and print publishers of the 18th century. The Vandergucht workshop was closely associated with major London publishers and contributed illustrations to numerous significant publications, particularly in drama, history, and classical literature. Their engravings are noted for their clarity, narrative detail, and ability to bring theatrical scenes vividly to life. While not all plates in such editions are individually signed, the style and period strongly suggest production within this influential engraving circle. The inclusion of these finely executed copperplate illustrations enhances both the visual appeal and collectability of the set. Provenance: Armorial Bookplate This set bears an engraved armorial bookplate of William Henry Parr, featuring a heraldic coat of arms with a chevron and lion faces, along with the motto “Per aspera ad astra” = “Through hardships to the stars”. The design corresponds to a recognised form of the Parr family arms, an established English gentry lineage. The presence of a named armorial bookplate indicates ownership within a private gentleman’s library and provides a tangible link to the book’s historical provenance. Such plates were typically commissioned by individuals of standing and are valued by collectors as evidence of a book’s passage through successive collections. Christopher Rowe: Active likely late 18th–early 19th century Worked as a schoolmaster in Norwich and later Bristol Had strong antiquarian interests, especially: 17th-century English printing and bookselling Particularly the printer/bookseller Humphrey Moseley His Library: A private scholarly library, not institutional Focus appears to include: Antiquarian history Numismatics (medals, coins) Early modern English print culture Books from his collection occasionally surface on the market with: Bookplates (“Ex Libris Christopher Rowe”) Ownership inscriptions or annotations Set Details: Title: The Works of Mr. Francis Beaumont and Mr. John Fletcher Format: 7 volumes (complete) Size: Octavo (8vo) Publication: London, circa 1711 Illustrations: Engraved plates throughout Contents: Includes notable plays such as: The Knight of the Burning Pestle The Spanish Curate Wit Without Money The Night-Walker And many others Binding & Condition: Binding: Contemporary full calf leather Spines: Raised bands with worn gilt decoration Condition: Structurally sound overall Age-related wear, rubbing, and scuffing to boards and spines Pages generally clean with expected toning Copper engraved plates present Dimensions: The total collection weighs 4.4 KG Each individual book is: Height - 20cm Width - 12.5cm Thickness - 4cm
Couldn't be happier! Very fast shipping from the UK. Packaged well and all arrived in great shape. Exactly as described at a very fair price. I will put them in Pride of Place in my library. Thanks much! 5*
Beautiful! A piece of history in great condition for being 250 years old. Fast shipping with tracking was very helpful. Very pleased with kind and fast service.
Beautiful book, as described. I have always wanted one and now I have it. Well packaged and safely delivered.
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