2 volumes in 1. [22], 341, [9]; [8], 376. [2] pp. *2-6, A-Z6, Aa-Ff6, Gg8 (with Gg8 a blank); A3-6, B-Q6, R8 (with R8, a blank, not present), S-Z6, Aa-Hh6, Ii8 (with Ii8, a blank, not present). Copper-engraved pictorial title, with portrait on verso, followed by an engraved dedication-leaf (these are not including in the pagination or collation). (folio) 28x18 cm. (11x7"), period or slightly later paneled calf, rebacked with later gilt-tooled calf, raised bands, morocco lettering piece.
First editions in English of Homer's Works, including the true first printing of the Iliad (not the later reprint found in some copies). Complete edition of Chapman's Homer - the most celebrated translation of the Elizabethan age, immortalized by Keats - the first publication in English, this being the combined reissue of the Iliads, 1611 (STC 13634) and the Odysses, [1615?] (STC 13637). This combination of the earlier printings was likely issued in 1616. The title page of the first is usually cancelled by the general title page and a dedication leaf, both engraved; the title page of the second is usually cancelled. This is true of this copy. There are the sixteen sonnets by Chapman on leaves Gg4-7 following pt.1, p. [342], as called for. Bookplate of George Goyder. Custom-made folding half morocco box.
Condition:
Minor cover wear, corners showing; slight worming to lower corners of the Iliads, not affecting any text, a handsome copy in early binding of one of the keystones of Western literature.