Gelli, Giovanni Battista (1498-1563) Circes of Iohn Baptista Gello, Florentine, Translated out of Italion into Englishe by Henry Iden.

Description:

Gelli, Giovanni Battista (1498-1563) Circes of Iohn Baptista Gello, Florentine, Translated out of Italion into Englishe by Henry Iden. London: [Imprinted in Poules Churchyarde, at the signe of the holy ghost by Iohn Cawood, printer to the Quenes Maiestie], 1557 [i.e. 1558 or 1559?]. Small octavo, two editions dated 1557, ESTC does not define a precedence, however, despite the date given on the title page date, internal textual evidence indicates that this edition was printed early in Elizabeth's reign (post 17 November 1558); rare, no auction sales since 1982, three U.S. copies in ESTC; title page printed within typographical ornament border, bound in full pebbled russet morocco by Bedford, spine gilt, a.e.g., a trifle rubbed, 5 x 3 1/4 in.

Gelli's work is a series of ethical and philosophical dialogues much read in the Elizabethan period even before Henry Iden published this English translation. In Observations on the Faerie Queen, 1754, p. 258, Warton notes, "Circe soon became a very popular book, and was translated into English (as likewise into other languages) in the year 1557, by one Henry Iden; so that, probably, Spenser had read it; and might be induc'd to consult that Dialogue, from its mention in the preface."

A-S8, T4.
http://estc.bl.uk/S105721
Estimate $6,000-8,000


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords