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Condition Summary
Solid & Complete. A rare survivor in a firm original leather binding with both boards fully attached. The interior is complete with all 60 copperplates. There is scattered foxing (age-related spotting) throughout. Note: There is water staining (tide marks) at the top margin of the first few chapters; this is largely confined to the margins and does not affect the legibility of the text or the clarity of the engravings.
Item Description
For sale is a complete, impressive example of \"The Genuine and Complete Works of Flavius Josephus,\" translated by George Henry Maynard. This massive \"Elephant Folio\" is an essential piece for collectors of Jewish history and 18th-century English art.
The William Blake Engravings
This specific edition is prized for containing three original plates engraved by the legendary artist and poet William Blake. These plates are clearly signed \"Blake sc.\" in the bottom corners:
Plate 2: The Fugitive Shechemites
Plate 14: The Battle of Ain, & the Destruction of the City, by the Army of Joshua
Plate 20: The Parting of LOT and ABRAHAM, after separating their Flocks, &c
Historical Significance
As the primary secular source for the Second Temple period and the Jewish-Roman Wars, Josephus’ works are a cornerstone of historical literature. This undated edition (c. 1785-1791) was printed for J. Cooke in London and includes the historical continuation by Rev. Edward Kimpton.
Technical Details
- Format: Large Folio (approx. 15\" x 10\")
- Illustrations: All 60 copperplate engravings and maps present.
- Publisher: J. Cooke, No. 17 Paternoster-Row, London.
- Binding: Contemporary full leather; hinges are strong and intact.
Shipping & Handling
- Secure Packing: Book will be wrapped in acid-free paper, heavily bubble-wrapped, and double-boxed to ensure it arrives in the condition described.
- Insurance: Shipped with full insurance and Signature Confirmation for secure delivery.
