2nd Folio Ben Jonson's Fox And Alchemist Plays 1640, Shakespeare's Contemporary
$ 654.02
Description
A handsome sammelband volume containing two early 17th-century plays by Ben Jonson , one of the most important dramatists of the English Renaissance and a contemporary of William Shakespeare . Bound together in a later black leather volume are: Volpone ( Volpone; or, The Fox ) The Alchemist Both printed in London and dated 1640. About Ben Jonson: Ben Jonson was one of the leading literary figures of his age and a central figure in the world of Elizabethan and Jacobean theatre. A contemporary and colleague of William Shakespeare , Jonson moved in the same theatrical circles and wrote for many of the same companies. He was renowned for his sharp satire, classical learning, and carefully structured comedies . Jonson is also notable for writing the preface to Shakespeare’s First Folio (1623) , helping to preserve Shakespeare’s legacy. His plays, especially Volpone and The Alchemist , remain among the finest examples of Renaissance comedy. Sir Kenelm Digby The Patron: Sir Kenelm Digby (1603–1665) was one of the most fascinating intellectual figures of 17th-century England—a courtier, natural philosopher, and man of letters closely connected to the literary world in which Ben Jonson lived and worked. Digby’s name appears in connection with mid-17th-century publications of Jonson’s works, reflecting his role as a patron and cultural authority . In this period, prominent figures like Digby often contributed commendatory verses or endorsements , lending prestige and intellectual weight to a publication. A contemporary of the later Shakespearean generation, Digby moved within elite literary and courtly circles, bridging the worlds of science, philosophy, and Renaissance drama . His association with Jonson’s works highlights the importance of these plays within the broader intellectual culture of the time. Richard Bishop The Printer: Richard Bishop was a London printer active in the early to mid-17th century and is recorded as one of the printers associated with the 1640–1641 folio publications of Ben Jonson’s works. Working during a period when the English book trade was tightly regulated by the Stationers’ Company, Bishop was part of the professional network responsible for producing and disseminating important literary texts of the era. His involvement situates this volume within the historical print culture of London , where plays by major dramatists such as Jonson were preserved, reissued, and circulated to new audiences following the author’s death. Bibliographic Details Author: Ben Jonson Titles: Volpone and The Alchemist Imprint: London, 1640 Format: Folio Binding: Later black leather Type: Sammelband (two separately printed works bound together) Binding & Presentation Later black leather boards with plain spine Marbled endpapers Solid, attractive binding suitable for shelf display Original 17th-century text blocks preserved within Condition General age toning consistent with 17th-century paper Light spotting and edge wear Text remains clear and readable throughout Both works appear complete , each ending with “The End” NOT original binding A very small amount of foxing predominantly found on the title page. Occasional writing in pencil can be found Minimal (if any) trimming Notes for Collectors Authentic 1640 London printings , nearly 400 years old Not first editions, but early and desirable lifetime-era printings Composite volume reflects historical collecting and rebinding practices A tangible connection to the world of Shakespearean theatre Dimensions: Weight - 710g Height - 34.5cm Width - 23cm Thickness - 2.5cm
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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