| Search Antiqbook |
Ask a question or
Order this book
Browse our books
Search our books
Book dealer info
[VERSTEGEN, RICHARD.] A restitution of decayed intelligence: in antiquities. Concerning the most noble and renowmed [sic] English nation. By the studie and travaile of R.V.
Antwerp, Robert Burney, 1605. First and best edition, small 4to, pp. [24], 338, [14]; engraved vignette of the Tower of Babel on the title-p., title printed in red and black, engraved coat-of-arms, 10 fine half-page engravings in the text, woodcut ornaments, a number of early and interesting ink annotations in the margins (some trimmed by the binder) in 2 distinct hands; early 19th century full calf, gilt-lettered direct on gilt-decorated spine, edges stained red; modest wear, joints rubbed, but generally a very good copy. Verstegen (fl. 1565-1620, née Richard Rowlands) was a London-born recusant of Dutch parentage who returned to the Netherlands to escape persecution. He distinguished himself early in the study of English history and Anglo- Saxon. This book, which gives "a summary of the early invasions of Great Britain, the formation of its languages, surnames, and other matters, and exhibits [Verstegen's] knowledge of Anglo-Saxon [is] the most interesting of all his works" (DNB). Alston III, 123, noting chapter VII: "Of the great antiquitie of our ancient English toung," and chapters VIII-IX: "Etymologies of the ancient Saxon proper names of men and women." The book also contains the first printing of the "Pied Piper" legend, made famous two centuries later by Robert Browning. STC 21361; Lowndes, p. 2764; Alston III, 123.
Offered for US$ 3125.00 by: Rulon-Miller Books ABAA/ILAB - Book number: 28420