Elyot, Sir Thomas (1490?-1546) Pasquyll the Playne.

Description:

Elyot, Sir Thomas (1490?-1546) Pasquyll the Playne. London: Thomae Bertheleti, 1540. Second edition (two appeared in 1533); title page printed within architectural woodcut border dated 1534; large woodcut of Elyot's coat of arms on the verso of C7 with the slogan "Face aut Tace"; rare, no auction sales; two U.S. copies listed in ESTC; bound in later limp parchment, contents somewhat water stained, with some spots, 5 3/4 x 3 3/4 in.

Pasquil the Playne is a semi-serious prose dialogue set in ancient Rome on the various flaws and merits of speech versus silence. Because Elyot was part of Henry VIII's court, and friends with Cromwell and Wolsey, one may suppose that it portrays some aspects of that scene. Elyot is among the pioneers of English prose literature.

A-C8, (final blank, C8, appearing only as a 1 1/4 in. stub).
http://estc.bl.uk/S108773
Estimate $5,000-7,000


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords