The Historie of the Uniting of the Kingdom of Portugall to the Crowne of Castill: Containing the last warres of the Portugals against the Moores of Africke, the end of the house of Portugall, and change of that Government.
London: Hatfield & Blount, 1600.
Engraved printer's device (Caduceus) on title page. (12), 324, (7) pages. (page 177 is misnumbered). Small folio, beautifully bound by Chambolle in full dark blue crushed levant with tripple gilt fillet borders enclosing fine gilt arms (Superabo) on both covers, and an ornate gilt-stamped spine with raised bands; thick inner dentelles, marbled endpapers, a.e.g. London: Arn. Hatfield for Edward Blount, 1600. First English edition. A fine tall copy, skillfully washed before binding.
Published anonymously. Conestaggio's name appears in the Italian and French editions, but it is sometimes taken as a pseudonym for Juan de Silva, conde de Portalegre, who accompanied Dom Sebastian to Africa. This is a magnificent and sumptuously bound copy of the rare Tudor translation. Dedicated by Blount to the Earl of Southampton, who was Shakespeare's patron. An account of the Shakespearian interest of this rare Elizabethan volume is given by the poet's biographer. STC 5624; Brunet II 217; Alden 600/31; ESTC S108618.
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Fine
Language: English
Price: $8,500.00
Item #158361