Author: Battely, John:

Title: Opera Posthuma. viz. Antiquitates Rutupinae et Antiquitates S. Edmundi Burgi ad Annum 1272 Perductae.

Publication: Oxonii [Oxford]: E Theatro Sheldoniano, 1745.

Description: 2 parts in 1 vol., 4to., pp.(xii), 138, (iv); (iv), 164 +16 plates, some folding (in part one 12 numbered & 1 unnumbered, in part two 3 numbered). Engraved head- and tail-piece and initials. Small abraded area to centre of title-page nearly forming a hole but not affecting text, occasional light spots but very clean internally. Contemporary speckled calf, raised bands, spine gilt with label, edges sprinkled red. Head and tail of spine and joints repaired in a lighter colour, corners worn, very good. To front paste-down, ownership inscription of J. Fleming, Coll: Oriel Soc. 1774 (according to Alumni Oxonienses of Thorner, Yorkshire, who began his M.A. at Oriel College in 1770). Also later book label of James Hobbs.

The 'Antiquitates Rutupinae' is the second edition, having been previously published in 1711; Battely's nephew Oliver inherited his papers and arranged for this complete publication with Sir James Burrough. The works treat the antiquities of Richborough, rich in Roman remains, near where Battely had been Rector of Adisham, and the history of Bury St Edmunds, where Battely had grown up. "An elegant posthumous discourse, says Bishop Nicolson" (Lowndes).

Bibliography: ESTC T91281. Lowndes 130.

Reference Number: [54566]

Price: £400

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