By John Donne
London   J Tonson; W Taylor
6" by 3.5" [25], 2-365, [3]pp
The scarce, first Tonson edition of John Donne's poems. An early printing of this famous metaphysical poet's works, in a nineteenth century straight grained morocco binding.
By John Donne

1719 Poems on Several Occasions. With Elegies on the Author's Death. To this Edition is added, some Account of the Life of the Author

London   J Tonson; W Taylor
6" by 3.5" [25], 2-365, [3]pp
The scarce, first Tonson edition of John Donne's poems. An early printing of this famous metaphysical poet's works, in a nineteenth century straight grained morocco binding.
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: 0.75kgs / : 652L11

What Our Customers Say...

Description

First Edition, Illustrated, Leather Binding

First thus, the first Tonson edition. John Donne's poems, particularly in an early antiquarian printing are scarce to come by. This particular edition has been produced by an esteemed eighteenth century bookseller and publisher. Tonson is best known for obtaining a copyright on the plays of William Shakespeare by purchasing the rights of the heirs to the publisher of the Fourth Folio. With red ruling to the title page and several woodcut head and tailpieces throughout. The account of Donne's life to this copy has been abridged from the life of Donne by Izaak Walton. ESTC no. T96902. The ESTC record for this work has an 'uncontrolled note' that calls for a frontispiece on the strength of a report from the 'BMu' ( the British Museum), but this is not corroborated by other references and such portraits are presumably supplied from elsewhere. Donne is noted for his vibrant language and creative use of the metaphor, particularly when compared to his contemporaries. Many of his poems were collected posthumously by his son as he did not wish for a scandal during his lifetime as he held a position in the Church. He wrote on a variety of subjects and penned secular poems in addition to erotic and love poems. A lovely, scarce, collection of this important poet's works.

Condition

In a nineteenth century straight-grained morocco binding. Externally, generally smart with rubbing to the joints and extremities. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright. Light scattered spotting to the first and last few pages. Otherwise, just the odd spot throughout.

Very Good

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