Music and Antiquarian Books and Manuscripts

G.F. Handel. First edition of "Rodelinda", 1725

Lot Closed

November 30, 02:18 PM GMT

Estimate

1,500 - 2,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

Handel, George Frideric

Rodelinda: An Opera, London: J. Cluer, [1725]

FIRST EDITION, 2 leaves, 108 pages, 4to (28 x 22.8cm), passe-partout illustrated title-page, index with advertisement, printed list of subscribers, engraved music, ownership inscriptions to front pastedown ("Catherine Collett Her Book Benj. Blyth 1804"), contemporary calf-backed boards, first four leaves detached, upper cover detached, spine defective

Rodelinda was first performed at the King's Theatre, London, on 13 February 1725. It is generally regarded as one of Handel's finest operas, a highly dramatic work whose taut plot resembles that of Fidelio. We have not traced a copy of this rare edition at auction since the Meyer sale (sale in our Paris rooms, 16 October 2012, lot 114).

LITERATURE

Smith no.1