[Elzevir Press] | Two handsome Elzevir editions

[Elzevir Press]

Two Elzevir publications

Vergilius Maro, Publius. Opera. Lugd.-Batavorum: Ex officina Elzeviriana,1636. 12mo (126 x 68 mm). Engraved title-page, folding engraved map of the Mediterranean titled "Aeneae Troinai Navigatio," woodcut head-pieces and initials; light browning, occasional spots. In mottled calf, spine with raised bands in 6 compartments, 2nd compartment with red morocco label lettered in gilt, others with repeat gilt motif, board edges with gilt decoration, red edges, marbled endpapers; extremities rubbed, front hinge a little loose, two corners with some exposure. — à Kempis, Thomas. De imitatione Christi. Lugduni: Ex Officina Elzeviriana,1658. 12mo (125 x 68 mm). Engraved title-page, woodcut head-pieces and initials; stray spots. In full green morocco, boards ruled in gilt, spine with raised bands in 5 compartments, 2nd compartment lettered in gilt, others with repeat gilt decoration, all edges gilt, marbled endpapers; boards and extremities lightly rubbed, some exposure at corners.

Two significant volumes, beautifully produced by the Elzevirs. The edition of Virgil's works contains a handsome engraved map of the Mediterranean with references to Aeneas, so that a reader may follow his journey. The present copy of De imitatione Christi is with excellent provenance, having belonged to Thomas Jefferson McKee. 

PROVENANCE

Henry William Poor (bookplate to pastedown, Opera) — Thomas Jefferson McKee (bookplate to pastedown, De imitatione Christi)