[Religion] Religio, Medici

Lugd. Batavorum [Leiden]: Apud Franciscum Hackium, 1650. Full Calf. Near Fine+. Early issue of the first Latin edition of Browne's first and most celebrated work, a spiritual testament and meditative essay originally not intended for publication. 12mo (128 x 73mm): 235,[5]pp, with engraved title page after a design by William Marshall of a figure falling headlong into the sea (but reversed with figure falling to the left). A5 and K4 erroneously signed, respectively, D5 and C4). Contemporary calf, boards double-ruled in gilt, spine richly gilt in five compartments between raised bands, titled in gilt direct to second compartment. An excellent example, securely bound and clean throughout. Keynes 62. First published, in 1642, in an unauthorized edition; the first Latin edition appeared in 1644. "This edition closely resembles Hackius' second edition of 1644 [Keynes 61] and is to a certain extent printed from the same type. Alterations have, however, been made and the orthography is modernized." (Keynes) Structured on the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity, Religio, Medici expresses Browne's beliefs in the doctrine of sola fide, the existence of hell, the Last Judgment, the resurrection, and other tenets of Christianity. N. B. With few exceptions (always identified), we only stock books in exceptional condition, carefully preserved in archival, removable mylar sleeves. All orders are packaged with care and posted promptly. Satisfaction guaranteed. (Fine Editions Ltd is a member of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, and we subscribe to its codes of ethics.).