The Travels of Cyrus. In Two Volumes. To which is annex'd A Discourse Upon the Theology and Mythology of the Ancients. By the Chevalier Ramsay. London: T. Woodward, et al., 1727.
FIRST EDITION IN ENGLISH, PUBLISHED THE SAME YEAR AS THE FRENCH, OF ANDREW RAMSAY'S IMPORTANT AND INFLUENTAL FICTIONAL TOUR OF THE ANCIENT WORLD.
IN FINE CONDITION
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The first edition of this work which was originally published in France (in French) and was an immediate bestseller. The English translation followed quickly, with a second edition published the following year. This is the first English edition and quite easily the greatest obtainable copy in such remarkable contemporary fine bindings.
This work describes an imaginary tour through the ancient world undertaken by Cyrus, the founder of the Persian Empire. He meets all sorts of notable ancient figures such as Zoroaster, Anaxagoras, Plato, Pythagoras, etc, who give him lessons of wisdom.
Also included is "A Discourse Upon the Theology and Mythology of the Ancients" which also has a Christian apologetic function to argue for the distinction between the theology and mythology of ancient cultures and the truth of Christianity.
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Size: 124 x 195 mm (approx., each)
Condition: A FINE COPY.
[(2), h.t., t.p., v-vii, 312pp, (2)]; [(2), t.p., 186pp, 144pp]
Incredible contemporary fine bindings, full marbled calf, spines very finely tooled in gilt in the Georgian period manner. Both volumes retain their tooled red morocco labels which show very attractively indeed. Joints rubbed, but with all boards securely attached, the bindings secure, and without shelf lean. Top edges uniformly dulled as typical, else edges very good. Minimal wear and rubbing, spines very slightly sunned, but generally externally in fine condition. Without any attached bookplates, with a few pencil inscriptions to end papers as typical, one dated to 1976 and another 1986. Early ink ownership inscription to second blank verso of Thomas Hickham Davy, probably 18th century. Volume two is bound without a half title, if called for, else the volumes both collate as complete with beautifully clean and bright text blocks, endpapers toned.
[ESTC T121199].
