Spenser, Edmund

4to (192 x 133mm.), 2 volumes, first edition of both volumes, volume I with dedication on verso of title signed “Ed. Spenser”, first digit of imprint date under “r” of “for” and the Welsh words in lines 4 and 5 of p.332 printed, eighteenth-century polished calf, covers with triple gilt fillets, roundels at corners, spines gilt in compartments with floral motif, red and green morocco lettering-pieces, marbled endpapers, title to volume I slightly browned, upper margins of volume I trimmed with some headlines shaved, early ownership inscriptions at foot of volume I, p.598 erased, some wear to joints and edges

William Herbert, initials on title; Sir John Mildmay, Dogmersfield library bookplate; Sir Harry Newton, bookplate

Pforzheimer 969; STC (2^nd ed.) 23081

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

First edition of both volumes of the great Elizabethan Protestant epic.