Spenser, Edmund

Two parts in one volume, folio (10 3/4 x 6 3/4 in.; 273 x 172 mm). First word ("The") of title to Part I is xylographic, woodcut printer's device on title-pages of Parts I and II (McKerrow 335) and colophon (McKerrow 221), Part II title-page also dated 1609, woodcut head- and tailpieces (McKerrow 180 head/foot, 182 foot, 184 foot, 185–187 foot, and 12 others not recorded in McKerrow), numerous woodcut initials, first stanza of each canto within a cartouche of four woodcut components; dampstaining to inner and outer margins of A–D and to inner margins of 2E–2I, top margin of L1–3 stained, two rust holes on T6 costing two words, fore-edge of 2H dampstained, some scattered spotting. Eighteenth-century calf, paneled in blind, scallop roll-tool employed near the joints, the spine in six compartments gilt (the second containing the lettering-piece), plain endpapers, edges sprinkled red; lacks front free endpaper, some neat mends to spine. 

Sir Edward O'Brien, 2nd Baronet, 1705–1765 (armorial bookplate). acquisition: Francis Edwards

STC 23083; ESTC S1728; Pforzheimer 971

Two parts in one volume, folio (10 3/4 X 6 3/4 in.; 273 X 172 mm). First word ("The") of title to Part I is xylographic, woodcut printer's device on title-pages of Parts I and II (McKerrow 335) and colophon (McKerrow 221), Part II title-page also dated 1609, woodcut head- and tailpieces (McKerrow 180 head/foot, 182 foot, 184 foot, 185–187 foot, and 12 others not recorded in McKerrow), numerous woodcut initials, first stanza of each canto within a cartouche of four woodcut components; dampstaining to inner and outer margins of A–D and to inner margins of 2E–2I, top margin of L1–3 stained, two rust holes on T6 costing two words, fore-edge of 2H dampstained, some scattered spotting. Eighteenth-century calf, paneled in blind, scallop roll-tool employed near the joints, the spine in six compartments gilt (the second containing the lettering piece), plain endpapers, edges sprinkled red; lacks front free endpaper, some neat mends to spine.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The third edition, enlarged with the "Two Cantos of Mutabilitie."