[20], 303, [1], 46, 49-100, [2], 69-232, 168, 269-419, [1] pp. (but lacking 6 leaves). A6 (-A1-4), *4, A-2B6, 2C2, a-y6 (-e3), 2a-3c6, 3d4 (-3d4). Double column text within typographical rules. Woodcut headpieces and initials. (folio) 30.2x20.3 cm. (12x8"), early 20th century full reddish-brown morocco, spine lettered in gilt, raised bands, marbled endpapers.
The second folio edition of William Shakespeare’s Works, one of the landmarks of English literature. While essentially a page-for-page reprint of the first, the second folio is famed for its inclusion, on the "Effigies" leaf, of Milton's “An Epitaph on the admirable Dramaticke Poet, W. Shakespeare” -- the first appearance in print of any work of Milton's. Gregg notes that, “Though many errors were introduced in the course of reprinting, the text of the present edition shows signs of careful, if unauthorized, revision.” The primary publisher was Robert Allot, with three additional partners, and thus variations in the imprint, however the present copy lacks the title-page and other prelims. before the "Effigies" leaf, so the question of issue is moot. The Effigies leaf itself is in Robert Metcalf Smith's “C” state. STC 22274; Greg III, pp.1113-1116; PMM 122 (1st Folio).
Condition:
Lacking the following leaves: A1-4, e3, 3d4; margins of "Effigies" leaf repaired/reinforced; about 13 leaves with repaired tears without loss; lower margin of Y1 replaced; e4 with margin repaired; h5 with chipping along gutter affecting some lettering; short tear to ff3; repair to nn affecting a dozen or so words; 3" tear to oo3 slightly affecting text; lower corners of final 19 leaves repaired affecting some text on last few leaves; occasional minor soiling, toning or faint staining to contents; overall very good save for the missing leaves, in fine binding. A nearly complete, affordable copy.