Ælfredi Magni Anglorum – John Spelman – 1678 | First edition, Alfred the Great

Ælfredi Magni Anglorum regis invictissimi vita tribus libris comprehensa by John Spelman is one of the most important and authoritative biographies of the life of Alfred the Great. Alfred, one of the England’s most admired medieval kings, is best remembered for his military victories over Viking hoards, his development of traditional war strategies, and restructuring the English military defense tactics.

This 1678 leather-bound folio was published in Oxford.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Ælfredi Magni Anglorum regis invictissimi vita tribus libris comprehensa
• Author(s): John Spelman
• Contributor(s): Christopher Wase (Translator); Obadiah Walker (Commentary)
• Publisher: Oxonii: E Theatro Sheldoniano
• Edition: First Latin edition, 1678
• Format: Folio, single volume
• Binding: Leather
• Size:  15 in x 9.75 in (38 cm x 24.5 cm)
• Collation: [40], 219, [13]
• Illustrations: 8 engraved plates
• Contents Include:
  • Complete Latin translation of Alfred the Great
• Provenance: provenance
• Reference(s): Wing S 4934; Madan 3197

Condition:

Very Good. Text block tight and secure. Moderate rubbing to leather at corners with noticeable, professional restoration at the hinges. Pages generally free of foxing and age toning.

Why Collect This?

• First Latin edition of Spelman’s biography of Alfred the Great
• Large folio Oxford imprint with engraved plates

Item Number: #29232