[39]"A Catalogue of the entire and valuable library ofMartin Folkes, Esq., President of the Royal Society, and member of the Royal Academy of Sciences at Paris, lately deceased; which will be sold by auction by Samuel Baker, at his house, in York Street, Covent Garden. To begin on Monday, February 2, 1756, and to continue for forty days successively (Sundays excepted). Catalogues to be had at most of the considerable places in Europe, and all the booksellers of Great Britain and Ireland, Price Sixpence."This collection was an exceedingly fine one; enriched with many books of the choicest description, which Mr. Folkes had acquired in his travels in Italy and Germany. The works on natural history, coins, medals, and inscriptions, and on the fine arts in general, formed the most valuable department—those in the Greek, Latin and English classics, were comparatively of inferior importance. It is a great pity the catalogue was not better digested; or the books classed according to the nature of their contents.The following prices, for some of the more rare and interesting articles, will amuse a bibliographer of the present day. The chronicles of Fabian, Hall, and Grafton, did not altogether bring quite £2: though the copies are described as perfect and fair. There seems to have been a fine set of Sir Wm. Dugdale's Works (Nos. 3074-81) in 13 vols. which, collectively, produced about 30 guineas.InSpanish literature, the history of South America, By Don Juan and Ant. di Ulloa, Madr. fol. in 5 vols., was sold for £5: a fine large paper copy of the description of the Monastery of St. Lorenzo, and the Escorial, Madr. 1657, brought £1 2s.: de Lastanosa's Spanish Medals, Huesca, fol. 1645, £2 2s.InEnglish, the first edition of Shakespeare, 1623, which is now what a French bibliographer would say "presque introuvable," produced the sum of £3 3s.; and Fuller's Worthies, 18s.!Fine Arts, Antiquities, and Voyages.Sandrart's works, in 9 folio volumes (of which a fine perfect copy is now rarely to be met with, and of very great value) were sold for £13 13s.only: Desgodetz Roman edifices, Paris, 1682, £4 10s.: Galleria Giustiniano, 2 vols., fol. £13 13s.Le Brun's Voyages in Muscovy, &c., in large paper, £4 4s.De Rossi's Raccolta de Statue, &c. Rom. 1704, £6 10s.Medailles du Regne de Louis le Grand, de l'imp. Roy. 1. p. fol. 1702, £5 15s.6d.The works onNatural Historybrought still higher prices; but the whole, from the present depreciation of specie, and increased rarity of the articles, would now bring thrice the sums then given.Of theGreek and Latin Classics, the Pliny of 1469 and 1472 were sold to Dr. Askew for £11 11s.and £7 17s.6d.At the Doctor's sale they brought £43 and £23: although the first was lately sold (A.D. 1805) among some duplicates of books belonging to the British Museum, at a much lower price: the copy was, in fact, neither large nor beautiful. Those in the Hunter and Cracherode collections are greatly superior, and would each bring more than double the price.From a priced copy of the sale catalogue, in my possession, I find that the amount of the sale, consisting of 5126 articles, was £3091 5s.ThePrints and Drawingsof Mr. Folkes occupied a sale of 8 days; and hispictures,gems,coins, andmathematical instruments, of five days.Mr.Martin Folkesmay justly be ranked among the most useful, as well as splendid, literary characters of which this country can boast. He appears to have imbibed, at a very early age, an extreme passion for science and literature; and to have distinguished himself so much at the University of Cambridge, under the able tuition of Dr. Laughton, that, in his 23rd year, he was admitted a Fellow of the Royal Society. About two years afterwards he was chosen one of the council, and rose, in gradual succession, to the chair of the presidentship, which he filled with a credit and celebrity that has since never been surpassed. On this occasion he was told by Dr. Jurin, the Secretary, who dedicated to him the 34th vol. of the Transactions, that "the greatest man that ever lived (Sir Isaac Newton) singled him out to fill the chair, and to preside in the society, when he himself was so frequently prevented by indisposition: and that it was sufficient to say of him that he wasSir Isaac's friend."Within a few years after this, he was elected President of the Society of Antiquaries. Two situations, the filling of which may be considered as thene plus ultraof literary distinction. Mr. Folkes travelled abroad, with his family, about two years and a half, visiting the cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice—where he was noticed by almost every person of rank and reputation, and whence he brought away many a valuable article to enrich his own collection. He was born in the year 1690, and died of a second stroke of the palsy, under which he languished for three years, in 1754. Dr. Birch has drawn a very just and interesting character of this eminent man, which may be found in Nichol'sAnecdotes of Bowyer, 562. 7. Mr. Edwards, the late ornithologist, has described him in a simple, but appropriate, manner. "He seemed," says he, "to have attained to universal knowledge; for, in the many opportunities I have had of being in his company, almost every part of science has happened to be the subject of discourse, all of which he handled as an adept. He was a man of great politeness in his manners, free from all pedantry and pride, and, in every respect, the real unaffected fine gentleman."[40]"Bibliotheca Rawlinsoniana, sive Catalogus Librorum Richardi Rawlinson, LL.D. Qui prostabunt Venales sub hasta, Apud Samuelem Baker. In Vico dictoYork Street, Covent Garden Londini, Die Lunæ, 22 Martiimdcclvi."This valuable library must have contained about 20,000 volumes; for the number of Articles amounted to 9405. On examining a priced catalogue of it, which now lies before me, I have not found any higher sum offered for a work than £4 1s.for a collection of fine prints, by Aldegrave (No. 9405). The Greek and Latin classics, of which there were fewEditiones Principes, or onlarge paper, brought the usual sums given at that period. The old English black-lettered books, which were pretty thickly scattered throughout the collection, were sold for exceedingly low prices—if the copies were perfect. Witness the following:£s.d.The Newe Testament in English, 1530029The Ymage of both Churches, after the Revelation of St. John, by Bale, 1550016The boke called the Pype or Tonne of Perfection, by Richard Whytforde, 1532019The Visions of Pierce Plowman, 1561020The Creede of Pierce Plowman, 1553016The Bookes of Moses, in English, 1530039Bale's Actes of Englishe Votaryes, 1550013The Boke of Chivalrie, by Caxton0110The Boke of St. Albans, by W. de Worde110These are only very few of the rare articles in English literature, of the whole of which (perhaps upwards of 200 in number) I believe, the 'Boke of St. Albans,' brought the highest sum. Hence it will be seen that this was not the age of curious research into the productions of our ancestors. Shakspeare had not then appeared in a properVariorum edition. Theobald, and Pope, and Warburton, had not investigated the black-letter lore of ancient English writers, for the illustration of their favourite author. This was reserved for Farmer, for Steevens, for Malone, for Chalmers, Reed and Douce: and it is expressly to these latter gentlemen (for Johnson and Hanmer were very sparing, or very shy, of the black letter), that we are indebted for the present spirit of research into the works of our ancestors.The sale of the books lasted 50 days. There was a second sale of pamphlets, books of prints, &c., in the following year, which lasted 10 days; and this was immediately succeeded by a sale of the Doctor's single prints and drawings, which continued 8 days.[41]This gentleman's library, not so remarkable for the black letter as for whimsical publications, was sold by auction, by Samuel Paterson, [the earliest sale in which I find this well known book-auctioneer engaged] in June, 1759, and the three ensuing evenings. The title of the Sale Catalogue is as follows:"A Catalogue of the original MSS. and manuscript collections of the late Reverend Mr.John Henley, A.M., Independent Minister of the Oratory, &c., in which are included sundry collections of the late Mons. des Maizeaux, the learned editor of Bayle, &c., Mr. Lowndes, author of the Report for the Amendment of Silver Coins, &c., Dr. Patrick Blair, Physician at Boston, and F.R.S. &c., together with original letters and papers of State, addressed to Henry d'Avenant, Esq., her Britannic Majesty's Envoy at Francfort, from 1703 to 1708 inclusive."Few libraries have contained more curious and remarkable publications than did this. The following articles, given as notable specimens, remind us somewhat of Addison's Memoranda for the Spectator, which the waiter at the coffee-house picked up and read aloud for the amusement of the company.No. 166. God's Manifestation by a Star to the Dutch. A mortifying Fast Diet at Court. On the Birth Day of the first and oldest young gentleman. All corrupt: none good: no not one.No. 168. General Thumbissimo. The Spring reversed, or the Flanderkin's Opera and Dutch Pickle Herrings. The Creolean Fillip, or Royal Mishap. A Martial Telescope, &c., England's Passion Sunday, and April Changelings.No. 170. Speech upon Speech. A Telescope for Tournay. No Battle, but worse, and the True Meaning of it. An Army Beaten and interred.No. 174. Signs when the P. will come. Was Captain Sw——n a Prisoner on Parole, to be catechised? David's Opinion of like Times. The Seeds of the plot may rise, though the leaves fall. A Perspective, from the Blair of Athol, the Pretender's Popery. Murder! Fire! Where! Where!No. 178. Taking Carlisle, catching an eel by the tail. Address of a Bishop, Dean and Clergy. Swearing to the P——r, &c., Anathema denounced against those Parents, Masters, and Magistrates, that do not punish the Sin at Stokesley. A Speech, &c. A parallel between the Rebels to K. Charles I. and those to his Successor.Jane Cameronlooked killing atFalkirk.No. 179. Let stocks be knighted, write, Sir Banks, &c. the Ramhead Month. A Proof that the Writers against Popery fear it will be established in this Kingdom. A Scheme, wisely blabbed to root and branch the Highlanders. Let St. Patrick have fair play, &c.OfOrator HenleyI have not been able to collect any biographical details more interesting than those which are to be found in Warburton's notes to Pope's Dunciad.
[39]"A Catalogue of the entire and valuable library ofMartin Folkes, Esq., President of the Royal Society, and member of the Royal Academy of Sciences at Paris, lately deceased; which will be sold by auction by Samuel Baker, at his house, in York Street, Covent Garden. To begin on Monday, February 2, 1756, and to continue for forty days successively (Sundays excepted). Catalogues to be had at most of the considerable places in Europe, and all the booksellers of Great Britain and Ireland, Price Sixpence."
This collection was an exceedingly fine one; enriched with many books of the choicest description, which Mr. Folkes had acquired in his travels in Italy and Germany. The works on natural history, coins, medals, and inscriptions, and on the fine arts in general, formed the most valuable department—those in the Greek, Latin and English classics, were comparatively of inferior importance. It is a great pity the catalogue was not better digested; or the books classed according to the nature of their contents.
The following prices, for some of the more rare and interesting articles, will amuse a bibliographer of the present day. The chronicles of Fabian, Hall, and Grafton, did not altogether bring quite £2: though the copies are described as perfect and fair. There seems to have been a fine set of Sir Wm. Dugdale's Works (Nos. 3074-81) in 13 vols. which, collectively, produced about 30 guineas.
InSpanish literature, the history of South America, By Don Juan and Ant. di Ulloa, Madr. fol. in 5 vols., was sold for £5: a fine large paper copy of the description of the Monastery of St. Lorenzo, and the Escorial, Madr. 1657, brought £1 2s.: de Lastanosa's Spanish Medals, Huesca, fol. 1645, £2 2s.
InEnglish, the first edition of Shakespeare, 1623, which is now what a French bibliographer would say "presque introuvable," produced the sum of £3 3s.; and Fuller's Worthies, 18s.!
Fine Arts, Antiquities, and Voyages.Sandrart's works, in 9 folio volumes (of which a fine perfect copy is now rarely to be met with, and of very great value) were sold for £13 13s.only: Desgodetz Roman edifices, Paris, 1682, £4 10s.: Galleria Giustiniano, 2 vols., fol. £13 13s.Le Brun's Voyages in Muscovy, &c., in large paper, £4 4s.De Rossi's Raccolta de Statue, &c. Rom. 1704, £6 10s.Medailles du Regne de Louis le Grand, de l'imp. Roy. 1. p. fol. 1702, £5 15s.6d.
The works onNatural Historybrought still higher prices; but the whole, from the present depreciation of specie, and increased rarity of the articles, would now bring thrice the sums then given.
Of theGreek and Latin Classics, the Pliny of 1469 and 1472 were sold to Dr. Askew for £11 11s.and £7 17s.6d.At the Doctor's sale they brought £43 and £23: although the first was lately sold (A.D. 1805) among some duplicates of books belonging to the British Museum, at a much lower price: the copy was, in fact, neither large nor beautiful. Those in the Hunter and Cracherode collections are greatly superior, and would each bring more than double the price.
From a priced copy of the sale catalogue, in my possession, I find that the amount of the sale, consisting of 5126 articles, was £3091 5s.
ThePrints and Drawingsof Mr. Folkes occupied a sale of 8 days; and hispictures,gems,coins, andmathematical instruments, of five days.
Mr.Martin Folkesmay justly be ranked among the most useful, as well as splendid, literary characters of which this country can boast. He appears to have imbibed, at a very early age, an extreme passion for science and literature; and to have distinguished himself so much at the University of Cambridge, under the able tuition of Dr. Laughton, that, in his 23rd year, he was admitted a Fellow of the Royal Society. About two years afterwards he was chosen one of the council, and rose, in gradual succession, to the chair of the presidentship, which he filled with a credit and celebrity that has since never been surpassed. On this occasion he was told by Dr. Jurin, the Secretary, who dedicated to him the 34th vol. of the Transactions, that "the greatest man that ever lived (Sir Isaac Newton) singled him out to fill the chair, and to preside in the society, when he himself was so frequently prevented by indisposition: and that it was sufficient to say of him that he wasSir Isaac's friend."
Within a few years after this, he was elected President of the Society of Antiquaries. Two situations, the filling of which may be considered as thene plus ultraof literary distinction. Mr. Folkes travelled abroad, with his family, about two years and a half, visiting the cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice—where he was noticed by almost every person of rank and reputation, and whence he brought away many a valuable article to enrich his own collection. He was born in the year 1690, and died of a second stroke of the palsy, under which he languished for three years, in 1754. Dr. Birch has drawn a very just and interesting character of this eminent man, which may be found in Nichol'sAnecdotes of Bowyer, 562. 7. Mr. Edwards, the late ornithologist, has described him in a simple, but appropriate, manner. "He seemed," says he, "to have attained to universal knowledge; for, in the many opportunities I have had of being in his company, almost every part of science has happened to be the subject of discourse, all of which he handled as an adept. He was a man of great politeness in his manners, free from all pedantry and pride, and, in every respect, the real unaffected fine gentleman."
[40]"Bibliotheca Rawlinsoniana, sive Catalogus Librorum Richardi Rawlinson, LL.D. Qui prostabunt Venales sub hasta, Apud Samuelem Baker. In Vico dictoYork Street, Covent Garden Londini, Die Lunæ, 22 Martiimdcclvi."
This valuable library must have contained about 20,000 volumes; for the number of Articles amounted to 9405. On examining a priced catalogue of it, which now lies before me, I have not found any higher sum offered for a work than £4 1s.for a collection of fine prints, by Aldegrave (No. 9405). The Greek and Latin classics, of which there were fewEditiones Principes, or onlarge paper, brought the usual sums given at that period. The old English black-lettered books, which were pretty thickly scattered throughout the collection, were sold for exceedingly low prices—if the copies were perfect. Witness the following:
These are only very few of the rare articles in English literature, of the whole of which (perhaps upwards of 200 in number) I believe, the 'Boke of St. Albans,' brought the highest sum. Hence it will be seen that this was not the age of curious research into the productions of our ancestors. Shakspeare had not then appeared in a properVariorum edition. Theobald, and Pope, and Warburton, had not investigated the black-letter lore of ancient English writers, for the illustration of their favourite author. This was reserved for Farmer, for Steevens, for Malone, for Chalmers, Reed and Douce: and it is expressly to these latter gentlemen (for Johnson and Hanmer were very sparing, or very shy, of the black letter), that we are indebted for the present spirit of research into the works of our ancestors.
The sale of the books lasted 50 days. There was a second sale of pamphlets, books of prints, &c., in the following year, which lasted 10 days; and this was immediately succeeded by a sale of the Doctor's single prints and drawings, which continued 8 days.
[41]This gentleman's library, not so remarkable for the black letter as for whimsical publications, was sold by auction, by Samuel Paterson, [the earliest sale in which I find this well known book-auctioneer engaged] in June, 1759, and the three ensuing evenings. The title of the Sale Catalogue is as follows:
"A Catalogue of the original MSS. and manuscript collections of the late Reverend Mr.John Henley, A.M., Independent Minister of the Oratory, &c., in which are included sundry collections of the late Mons. des Maizeaux, the learned editor of Bayle, &c., Mr. Lowndes, author of the Report for the Amendment of Silver Coins, &c., Dr. Patrick Blair, Physician at Boston, and F.R.S. &c., together with original letters and papers of State, addressed to Henry d'Avenant, Esq., her Britannic Majesty's Envoy at Francfort, from 1703 to 1708 inclusive."
Few libraries have contained more curious and remarkable publications than did this. The following articles, given as notable specimens, remind us somewhat of Addison's Memoranda for the Spectator, which the waiter at the coffee-house picked up and read aloud for the amusement of the company.
No. 166. God's Manifestation by a Star to the Dutch. A mortifying Fast Diet at Court. On the Birth Day of the first and oldest young gentleman. All corrupt: none good: no not one.
No. 168. General Thumbissimo. The Spring reversed, or the Flanderkin's Opera and Dutch Pickle Herrings. The Creolean Fillip, or Royal Mishap. A Martial Telescope, &c., England's Passion Sunday, and April Changelings.
No. 170. Speech upon Speech. A Telescope for Tournay. No Battle, but worse, and the True Meaning of it. An Army Beaten and interred.
No. 174. Signs when the P. will come. Was Captain Sw——n a Prisoner on Parole, to be catechised? David's Opinion of like Times. The Seeds of the plot may rise, though the leaves fall. A Perspective, from the Blair of Athol, the Pretender's Popery. Murder! Fire! Where! Where!
No. 178. Taking Carlisle, catching an eel by the tail. Address of a Bishop, Dean and Clergy. Swearing to the P——r, &c., Anathema denounced against those Parents, Masters, and Magistrates, that do not punish the Sin at Stokesley. A Speech, &c. A parallel between the Rebels to K. Charles I. and those to his Successor.Jane Cameronlooked killing atFalkirk.
No. 179. Let stocks be knighted, write, Sir Banks, &c. the Ramhead Month. A Proof that the Writers against Popery fear it will be established in this Kingdom. A Scheme, wisely blabbed to root and branch the Highlanders. Let St. Patrick have fair play, &c.
OfOrator HenleyI have not been able to collect any biographical details more interesting than those which are to be found in Warburton's notes to Pope's Dunciad.
We are now, my dear Sir, descending rapidly to our own times; and, in a manner sufficiently rough, have traced theHistory of the Bibliomaniato the commencement of the present illustrious reign: whenwe discover, among its victims, a General, who had probably faced many a cannon, and stormed many arampart, uninjured. The name of Dormer[42]will remind you of the small but choice library which affords such a melancholy proof of its owners' fate; while the more splendid examples of Smith[43]and West[44]serve to shew the increased ravages of a disease, which seemed to threaten the lives of all, into whose ears(like those of "Visto,") some demon had "whispered" the sound of "taste." These three striking instancesof the fatality of the Bibliomania occurred—the first in the year 1764; and the latter in 1773. The following year witnessed the sale of the Fletewode[45]library; so that nothing but despair and havoc appeared to move in the train of this pestiferous malady. In the year 1775 died the famous Dr. Anthony Askew, another illustrious victim to the Bibliomania. Thosewho recollect the zeal and scholarship of this great book-collector, and the precious gems with which his library[46]was stored from the cabinets of De Boze and Gaignat, as well as of Mead and Folkes, cannotbut sigh with grief of heart on the thought of such a victim! How ardently, and how kindly [as I remember to have heard his friend Dr. Burges say], would Askew unfold his glittering stores—open the magnificent folio, or the shining duodecimo,upon vellum, embossed and fast held together with golden knobs and silver clasps! How carefully would he unroll the curious MS.—decipher the half effaced characters—and then, casting an eye of ecstacy over the shelves upon which similar treasures were lodged, exult in the glittering prospect before him! But death—who, as Horace tells us, rapsequally at the palaces of kings and cottages of peasants, made no scruple to exercise the knocker of the Doctor's door, and sent, as his avant-courier,this deplorable mania! It appeared; and even Askew, with all his skill in medicine and books, fell lifeless before it—bewailed, as he was beloved and respected!
[42]"A Catalogue of the genuine and elegant Library of the late SirC.C. Dormer, collected by Lieutenant-General James Dormer, which will be sold, &c., by Samuel Baker, at his house in York Street, Covent Garden; to begin on Monday, February the 20th, 1764, and to continue the nineteen following evenings." At the end of the catalogue we are told that the books were "in general of the best editions, and in the finest condition, many of them inlarge paper, bound in morocco, gilt leaves, &c."This was a very choice collection of books, consisting almost entirely of Greek, Latin, Italian, Spanish and French. The number of articles did not exceed 3082, and of volumes, probably not 7000. The catalogue is neatly printed, and copies of it onlarge paperare exceedingly scarce. Among the most curious and valuable articles were those numbered 599, 604, 2249, 2590; from no. 2680, to the end, was a choice collection of Italian and Spanish books.[43]In the year 1755 was published at Venice, printed by J.B. Pasquali, a catalogue of the books ofJoseph Smith, Esq., Consul at Venice.The catalogue was published under the following Latin title: "Bibliotheca Smitheana, seu Catalogus Librorum D. Josephi Smithii, Angli, per Cognomina Authorum dispositus, Venetiis, typis Jo. Baptistæ Pasquali, M,DCCLV.;" in quarto; with the arms of Consul Smith. The title page is succeeded by a Latin preface of Pasquali, and an alphabetical list of 43 pages of the authors mentioned in the catalogue: then follow the books arranged alphabetically, without any regard to size, language, or subject. These occupy 519 pages, marked with the Roman numerals; after which are 66 pages, numbered in the same manner, of "addenda et corrigenda." The most valuable part of the volume is "The Prefaces and Epistles prefixed to those works in the Library which were printed in the 15th century:" these occupy 348 pages. A Catalogue, (in three pages) of the Names of the illustrious Men mentioned in these prefaces, &c., closes the book.It would be superfluous to mention to bibliographers the rare articles contained in this collection, which are so generally known and so justly appreciated. They consist chiefly of early editions ofItalian,Greek, andLatin classics; and of many copies of both printedupon vellum. The library, so rich in these articles, was, however, defective in English Literature and Antiquities. There was scarcely any thing of Shakspeare or Dugdale.On the death of Mr. Smith in 1772, his collection was sold in 1773, 8vo., by Baker and Leigh; and the books were announced to the public, as being "in the finest preservation, and consisting of the very best and scarcest editions of the Latin, Italian, and French authors, from the invention of printing; with manuscripts and missals, upon vellum, finely illuminated." A glance upon the prices for which most of these fine books were sold made Mr. Cuthell exclaim, in my hearing, that "they were given away." On these occasions, one cannot help now and then wishing, with father Evander,"O mihi præteritos referat si Jupiter annos!"On comparing Pasquali's, with the sale, catalogue, it will be obvious that a great number of rare and valuable articles was disposed of before the books came to public auction. Indeed it is known that his presentMajestyenriched his magnificent collection with many of the Consul'sfirst editions, andvellum copies, during the life of the latter. The sale continued thirteen days only; and on the last day were sold all the English books in theblack-letter. Some of these are rather curious.OfConsul SmithI am unable to present the lover ofvirtuwith any particulars more acceptable than the following. Pasquali (whose Latin preface is curious enough—abounding with as many interrogatories as Hamlet's soliloquies) has told us that "as the Consul himself was distinguished for his politeness, talents, and prudence, so was his house for splendid and elegant decorations. You might there view, says he, the most beautifully painted pictures, and exquisite ornaments, whether gems, vases, or engravings. In short, the whole furniture was so brilliant and classical that you admired at once the magnificence and judgment of the owner." He tells us, a little further, that he had frequently solicited the Consul to print a catalogue of his books; which proposition his modesty at first induced him to reject; but, afterwards, his liberality, to comply with. He then observes that, "in the compilation of the catalogue, he has studied brevity as much as it was consistent with perspicuity; and that he was once desirous of stating thevalueandpriceof the books, but was dissuaded from it by the advice of the more experienced, and by the singular modesty of the Collector."It must be confessed that Pasquali has executed his task well, and that the catalogue ranks among the most valuable, as well as rare, books of the kind.[44]"Bibliotheca Westiana; A catalogue of the curious and truly valuable library of the late James West, Esq., President of the Royal Society, deceased, &c. Including the works ofCaxton,Lettou,Machlinia, the anonymousSt. AlbansSchoolmaste,Wynkyn de Worde,Pynson, and the rest of the old English typographers. Digested by Samuel Paterson," 1773, 8vo.ANALYSIS OF THE CATALOGUE.1.Volumes of Miscellaneous Tracts.These volumes extend from No. 148 to 200, from 915 to 992, from 1201 to 1330, and from No. 1401 to 1480.2.Divinity.In the whole, 560 articles; probably about 1200 volumes; some of them exceedingly scarce and valuable.3.Education, Languages, Criticism, Classics, Dictionaries,Catalogues of Libraries, &c.There were about 700 volumes in these departments. The catalogues of English books, from that of Maunsell, in 1595, to the latest before Mr. West's time, were very complete. The treatises on education and translations of the ancient classics comprehended a curious and uncommon collection. The Greek and Latin classics were rather select than rare.4.English Poetry, Romance, and Miscellanies.This interesting part of the collection comprehended about 355 articles, or probably about 750 volumes: and if the singularly rare and curious books which may be foundunder these heads alonewere now concentrated in one library, the owner of them might safely demand 4000 guineas for such a treasure.5.Philosophy, Mathematics, Inventions, Agriculture andHorticulture, Medicine, Cookery, Surgery, etc.Two hundred and forty articles, or about 560 volumes.6.Chemistry, Natural History, Astrology, Sorcery, Gigantology.Probably not more than 100 volumes.7.History and Antiquities.This comprehended a great number of curious and valuable productions, relating both to foreign and domestic transactions.8.Heraldry and Genealogy.A great number of curious and scarce articles may be found under these heads.9.Ancient Legends and Chronicles.To the English antiquary, few departments of literature are more interesting that these. Mr. West seems to have paid particular attention to them, and to have enriched his library with many articles of this description, of the rarest occurrence. The lovers of Caxton, Fabian, Hardyng, Hall, Grafton, and Holinshed, may be highly gratified by inspecting the various editions of these old chroniclers. I entreat the diligent bibliographer to examine the first eight articles of page 209 of the catalogue. Alas, when will all these again come under the hammer at one sale?!10.Topography.Even to a veteran, like the late Mr.Gough, such a collection as may be found from p. 217 to p. 239 of this catalogue, would be considered a first-rate acquisition. I am aware that the gothic wainscot, and stained glass windows, ofEnfield Studyenshrined a still more exquisite topographical collection! But we are improved since the days of Mr. West; and every body knows towhomthese improvements are, in a great measure, to be attributed. When I call to mind the author of 'British Topography' and 'Sepulchral Monuments,' I am not insensible to the taste, diligence, and erudition of the "par nobile fratrum," who have gratified us with the 'Environs of London,' 'Roman Remains,' and the first two volumes of 'Magna Britannia!'The preceding is to be considered as a very general, and therefore superficial, analysis of the catalogue of Mr. West's library; copies of it, with the sums for which the books were sold, are now found with difficulty, and bring a considerable price. I never saw or heard of one onlarge paper![45]"A catalogue of rare books and tracts in various languages and faculties; including theAncient Conventual Libraryof Missenden-Abbey, in Buckinghamshire; together with some choice remains of that of the late eminent Serjeant at law,William Fletewode, Esq., Recorder of London, in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth; among which are several specimens of the earliest Typography, foreign and English, includingCaxton,Wynkyn de Worde,Pynson, and others; a fine collection of English Poetry, some scarce old law-books, a great number of old English plays, several choice MSS. upon vellum, and other subjects of literary curiosity. Also several of the best editions of the Classics, and modern English and French books. To beginDecember5, 1774, and the 17 following evenings, precisely at half an hour after five."I am in possession of apriced Catalogueof this collection, which once belonged to Herbert, and which contains all the purchasers' names, as well as the sums given. The purchasers were principally Herbert, Garrick, Dodd, Elmsley, T. Payne, Richardson, Chapman, Wagstaff, Bindley, and Gough. The following is a specimen of some curious and interesting articles contained in this celebrated library, and of the prices for which they once sold!NO.£s.d.172.Bale's brefe Chronycle relating to Syr Johan Oldecastell, 1544. The Life off the 70th Archbishopp off Canterbury presentleye sittinge, 1574, &c. Life of Hen. Hills, Printer to O. Cromwell,with the Relation of what passed between him and the Taylor's Wife in Black Friars, 1688,&c.079Purchased by Mores.361 to 367.Upwards of thirtyscarce Theological Tracts, in Latin and English150746 to 784.A fine collection of early English Translations, in black letter, with some good foreign editions of the classics. Not exceeding, in the whole10100837, 838.Two copies of thefirst editionof Bacon's Essays, 1597!006The reader will just glance at No. 970, in the catalogue, en passant, to1082.(£1 2s.) and 1091 (12s.); but more particularly to1173.Caxton'sBoke of Tulle of olde age, &c. 1481. Purchased by the late Mr. T. Payne8801174.Caxton'sBoke which is sayd or called Cathon, &c. 1483.500Purchased by Alchorn.1256.Caxton'sDoctrinal of Sapyence, 1489660Purchased by Alchorn.1257.Caxton'sCordyal, 147961261258.Wynkyn de Worde'sOcharde of Syon, &c. 15191130I will, however, only add that there were upwards of 150 articles ofOld Plays, mostly in quarto. See page 73. OfAntiquities,Chronicles, andTopography, it would be difficult to pitch upon the rarest volumes. The collection, including very few MSS., contained 3641 articles, or probably nearly 7000 volumes. The Catalogue is uncommon.[46]I am now arrived, pursuing my chronological arrangement, at a very important period in the annals of book-sales. The name and collection of Dr.Askeware so well known in the bibliographical world that the reader need not be detained with laboured commendations on either: in the present place, however, it would be a cruel disappointment not to say a word or two by way ofprefaceorprologue.Dr.Anthony Askewhad eminently distinguished himself by a refined taste, a sound knowledge, and an indefatigable research relating to every thing connected with Grecian and Roman literature. It was to be expected, even during his life, as he was possessed of sufficient means to gratify himself with what was rare, curious, and beautiful in literature and the fine arts, that the public would, one day, be benefited by such pursuits: especially as he had expressed a wish that his treasures might be unreservedly submitted to sale, after his decease. In this wish the Doctor was not singular. Many eminent collectors had indulged it before him: and, to my knowledge, many modern ones still indulge it. Accordingly on the death of Dr. Askew, in 1774, appeared, in the ensuing year, a catalogue of his books for sale, by Messrs. Baker and Leigh, under the following title:"Bibliotheca Askeviana, sive Catalogus Librorum RarissimorumAntonii Askew, M.D., quorum Auctio fiet apud S. Baker et G. Leigh, in Vico dictoYork Street, Covent Garden, Londini.Die Lunæ, 13Februarii, MDCCLXXV, et in undeviginti sequentes dies." A few copies were struck off on large paper.We are told by the compiler of the catalogue that it was thought unnecessary to say much with respect to this Library of the late Dr. Anthony Askew, as the Collector and Collection were so well known in almost all parts of Europe. Afterwards it is observed that "The books in general are in very fine condition, many of them bound in morocco, and Russia leather, with gilt leaves." "To give a particular account," continues the Compiler, "of themany scarce editionsof books in this Catalogue would be almost endless, therefore thefirst editionsof the Classics, and someextremely rare booksare chiefly noticed. The catalogue, without any doubt, contains the best, rarest, and most valuable collection ofGreekandLatin Booksthat were ever sold in England." This account is not overcharged. The collection, in regard to Greek and Roman literature, wasuniquein its day.The late worthy and learned Mr. M.Cracherode, whose library now forms one of the most splendid acquisitions of the British Museum, and whosebequestof it will immortalize his memory, was also among the "Emptores literarii" at this renowned sale. He had enriched his collection with manyExemplar Askevianum; and, in his latter days, used to elevate his hands and eyes, and exclaim against the pricesnowoffered forEditiones Principes!The fact is, Dr. Askew's sale has been considered a sort ofærain bibliography. Since that period, rare and curious books in Greek and Latin literature have been greedily sought after, and obtained at most extravagant prices. It is very well for a veteran in bibliography, as was Mr. Cracherode, or as are Mr. Wodhull and Dr. Gosset, whose collections were formed in the days of Gaignat, Askew, Duke de la Valliere, and Lamoignon—it is very well for such gentlemen to declaim againstmodern prices! But what is to be done? Books grow scarcer every day, and the love of literature, and of possessing rare and interesting works, increases in an equal ratio. Hungry bibliographers meet, at sales, with well furnished purses, and are resolved upon sumptuous fare. Thus the hammervibrates, after a bidding ofForty pounds, where formerly it used regularly tofallatFour!But we lose sight of Dr. Askew'srare editions, andlarge paper copies. The following, gentle Reader, is but an imperfect specimen!NO.£s.d.168.Chaucer's Works, byPynson, no date7176172.Cicero of Old Age, by Caxton, 148113130518.Gilles' (Nicole) Annales, &c. de France. Paris, fol. 1520. 2 tom.sur velin31106647.Æginetæ (Pauli) Præcepta Salubria. Paris, quarto, 1510.On vellum1100666.Æsopi Fabulæ.Edit. Prin.circ.1480660684.Boccacio, la TeseideFerar.1475.Prima Edizione85001433.Catullus Tibullus, et Propertius, Aldi. 8vo. 1502.In Membrana17100This copy was purchased by the late Mr. M.C. Cracherode, and is now, with his library, in the British Museum. It is a beautiful book, but cannot be compared with Lord Spencer's AldinevellumVirgil, of the same size.1576.Durandi Rationale, &c. 1459.In Membrana6100The beginning of the 1st chapter was wanting. Lord Spencer has a perfect copy of this rare book on spotlessvellum!2656.Platonis Opera, apud Aldum. 2 vol. fol. 1513.Edit. Prin.On vellum55130Purchased by the late Dr. W. Hunter; and is at this moment, in his Museum atGlasgow. The reader who has not seen them can have no idea of the beauty of these vellum leaves. The ink is of the finest lustre, and the whole typographical arrangement may be considered a master-piece of printing. Lord Oxford told Dr. Mead that he gave 100 guineas for this very copy.
[42]"A Catalogue of the genuine and elegant Library of the late SirC.C. Dormer, collected by Lieutenant-General James Dormer, which will be sold, &c., by Samuel Baker, at his house in York Street, Covent Garden; to begin on Monday, February the 20th, 1764, and to continue the nineteen following evenings." At the end of the catalogue we are told that the books were "in general of the best editions, and in the finest condition, many of them inlarge paper, bound in morocco, gilt leaves, &c."
This was a very choice collection of books, consisting almost entirely of Greek, Latin, Italian, Spanish and French. The number of articles did not exceed 3082, and of volumes, probably not 7000. The catalogue is neatly printed, and copies of it onlarge paperare exceedingly scarce. Among the most curious and valuable articles were those numbered 599, 604, 2249, 2590; from no. 2680, to the end, was a choice collection of Italian and Spanish books.
[43]In the year 1755 was published at Venice, printed by J.B. Pasquali, a catalogue of the books ofJoseph Smith, Esq., Consul at Venice.
The catalogue was published under the following Latin title: "Bibliotheca Smitheana, seu Catalogus Librorum D. Josephi Smithii, Angli, per Cognomina Authorum dispositus, Venetiis, typis Jo. Baptistæ Pasquali, M,DCCLV.;" in quarto; with the arms of Consul Smith. The title page is succeeded by a Latin preface of Pasquali, and an alphabetical list of 43 pages of the authors mentioned in the catalogue: then follow the books arranged alphabetically, without any regard to size, language, or subject. These occupy 519 pages, marked with the Roman numerals; after which are 66 pages, numbered in the same manner, of "addenda et corrigenda." The most valuable part of the volume is "The Prefaces and Epistles prefixed to those works in the Library which were printed in the 15th century:" these occupy 348 pages. A Catalogue, (in three pages) of the Names of the illustrious Men mentioned in these prefaces, &c., closes the book.
It would be superfluous to mention to bibliographers the rare articles contained in this collection, which are so generally known and so justly appreciated. They consist chiefly of early editions ofItalian,Greek, andLatin classics; and of many copies of both printedupon vellum. The library, so rich in these articles, was, however, defective in English Literature and Antiquities. There was scarcely any thing of Shakspeare or Dugdale.
On the death of Mr. Smith in 1772, his collection was sold in 1773, 8vo., by Baker and Leigh; and the books were announced to the public, as being "in the finest preservation, and consisting of the very best and scarcest editions of the Latin, Italian, and French authors, from the invention of printing; with manuscripts and missals, upon vellum, finely illuminated." A glance upon the prices for which most of these fine books were sold made Mr. Cuthell exclaim, in my hearing, that "they were given away." On these occasions, one cannot help now and then wishing, with father Evander,
"O mihi præteritos referat si Jupiter annos!"
On comparing Pasquali's, with the sale, catalogue, it will be obvious that a great number of rare and valuable articles was disposed of before the books came to public auction. Indeed it is known that his presentMajestyenriched his magnificent collection with many of the Consul'sfirst editions, andvellum copies, during the life of the latter. The sale continued thirteen days only; and on the last day were sold all the English books in theblack-letter. Some of these are rather curious.
OfConsul SmithI am unable to present the lover ofvirtuwith any particulars more acceptable than the following. Pasquali (whose Latin preface is curious enough—abounding with as many interrogatories as Hamlet's soliloquies) has told us that "as the Consul himself was distinguished for his politeness, talents, and prudence, so was his house for splendid and elegant decorations. You might there view, says he, the most beautifully painted pictures, and exquisite ornaments, whether gems, vases, or engravings. In short, the whole furniture was so brilliant and classical that you admired at once the magnificence and judgment of the owner." He tells us, a little further, that he had frequently solicited the Consul to print a catalogue of his books; which proposition his modesty at first induced him to reject; but, afterwards, his liberality, to comply with. He then observes that, "in the compilation of the catalogue, he has studied brevity as much as it was consistent with perspicuity; and that he was once desirous of stating thevalueandpriceof the books, but was dissuaded from it by the advice of the more experienced, and by the singular modesty of the Collector."
It must be confessed that Pasquali has executed his task well, and that the catalogue ranks among the most valuable, as well as rare, books of the kind.
[44]"Bibliotheca Westiana; A catalogue of the curious and truly valuable library of the late James West, Esq., President of the Royal Society, deceased, &c. Including the works ofCaxton,Lettou,Machlinia, the anonymousSt. AlbansSchoolmaste,Wynkyn de Worde,Pynson, and the rest of the old English typographers. Digested by Samuel Paterson," 1773, 8vo.
ANALYSIS OF THE CATALOGUE.
1.Volumes of Miscellaneous Tracts.
These volumes extend from No. 148 to 200, from 915 to 992, from 1201 to 1330, and from No. 1401 to 1480.
2.Divinity.
In the whole, 560 articles; probably about 1200 volumes; some of them exceedingly scarce and valuable.
3.Education, Languages, Criticism, Classics, Dictionaries,Catalogues of Libraries, &c.
There were about 700 volumes in these departments. The catalogues of English books, from that of Maunsell, in 1595, to the latest before Mr. West's time, were very complete. The treatises on education and translations of the ancient classics comprehended a curious and uncommon collection. The Greek and Latin classics were rather select than rare.
4.English Poetry, Romance, and Miscellanies.
This interesting part of the collection comprehended about 355 articles, or probably about 750 volumes: and if the singularly rare and curious books which may be foundunder these heads alonewere now concentrated in one library, the owner of them might safely demand 4000 guineas for such a treasure.
5.Philosophy, Mathematics, Inventions, Agriculture andHorticulture, Medicine, Cookery, Surgery, etc.
Two hundred and forty articles, or about 560 volumes.
6.Chemistry, Natural History, Astrology, Sorcery, Gigantology.
Probably not more than 100 volumes.
7.History and Antiquities.
This comprehended a great number of curious and valuable productions, relating both to foreign and domestic transactions.
8.Heraldry and Genealogy.
A great number of curious and scarce articles may be found under these heads.
9.Ancient Legends and Chronicles.
To the English antiquary, few departments of literature are more interesting that these. Mr. West seems to have paid particular attention to them, and to have enriched his library with many articles of this description, of the rarest occurrence. The lovers of Caxton, Fabian, Hardyng, Hall, Grafton, and Holinshed, may be highly gratified by inspecting the various editions of these old chroniclers. I entreat the diligent bibliographer to examine the first eight articles of page 209 of the catalogue. Alas, when will all these again come under the hammer at one sale?!
10.Topography.
Even to a veteran, like the late Mr.Gough, such a collection as may be found from p. 217 to p. 239 of this catalogue, would be considered a first-rate acquisition. I am aware that the gothic wainscot, and stained glass windows, ofEnfield Studyenshrined a still more exquisite topographical collection! But we are improved since the days of Mr. West; and every body knows towhomthese improvements are, in a great measure, to be attributed. When I call to mind the author of 'British Topography' and 'Sepulchral Monuments,' I am not insensible to the taste, diligence, and erudition of the "par nobile fratrum," who have gratified us with the 'Environs of London,' 'Roman Remains,' and the first two volumes of 'Magna Britannia!'
The preceding is to be considered as a very general, and therefore superficial, analysis of the catalogue of Mr. West's library; copies of it, with the sums for which the books were sold, are now found with difficulty, and bring a considerable price. I never saw or heard of one onlarge paper!
[45]"A catalogue of rare books and tracts in various languages and faculties; including theAncient Conventual Libraryof Missenden-Abbey, in Buckinghamshire; together with some choice remains of that of the late eminent Serjeant at law,William Fletewode, Esq., Recorder of London, in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth; among which are several specimens of the earliest Typography, foreign and English, includingCaxton,Wynkyn de Worde,Pynson, and others; a fine collection of English Poetry, some scarce old law-books, a great number of old English plays, several choice MSS. upon vellum, and other subjects of literary curiosity. Also several of the best editions of the Classics, and modern English and French books. To beginDecember5, 1774, and the 17 following evenings, precisely at half an hour after five."
I am in possession of apriced Catalogueof this collection, which once belonged to Herbert, and which contains all the purchasers' names, as well as the sums given. The purchasers were principally Herbert, Garrick, Dodd, Elmsley, T. Payne, Richardson, Chapman, Wagstaff, Bindley, and Gough. The following is a specimen of some curious and interesting articles contained in this celebrated library, and of the prices for which they once sold!
I will, however, only add that there were upwards of 150 articles ofOld Plays, mostly in quarto. See page 73. OfAntiquities,Chronicles, andTopography, it would be difficult to pitch upon the rarest volumes. The collection, including very few MSS., contained 3641 articles, or probably nearly 7000 volumes. The Catalogue is uncommon.
[46]I am now arrived, pursuing my chronological arrangement, at a very important period in the annals of book-sales. The name and collection of Dr.Askeware so well known in the bibliographical world that the reader need not be detained with laboured commendations on either: in the present place, however, it would be a cruel disappointment not to say a word or two by way ofprefaceorprologue.
Dr.Anthony Askewhad eminently distinguished himself by a refined taste, a sound knowledge, and an indefatigable research relating to every thing connected with Grecian and Roman literature. It was to be expected, even during his life, as he was possessed of sufficient means to gratify himself with what was rare, curious, and beautiful in literature and the fine arts, that the public would, one day, be benefited by such pursuits: especially as he had expressed a wish that his treasures might be unreservedly submitted to sale, after his decease. In this wish the Doctor was not singular. Many eminent collectors had indulged it before him: and, to my knowledge, many modern ones still indulge it. Accordingly on the death of Dr. Askew, in 1774, appeared, in the ensuing year, a catalogue of his books for sale, by Messrs. Baker and Leigh, under the following title:
"Bibliotheca Askeviana, sive Catalogus Librorum RarissimorumAntonii Askew, M.D., quorum Auctio fiet apud S. Baker et G. Leigh, in Vico dictoYork Street, Covent Garden, Londini.Die Lunæ, 13Februarii, MDCCLXXV, et in undeviginti sequentes dies." A few copies were struck off on large paper.
We are told by the compiler of the catalogue that it was thought unnecessary to say much with respect to this Library of the late Dr. Anthony Askew, as the Collector and Collection were so well known in almost all parts of Europe. Afterwards it is observed that "The books in general are in very fine condition, many of them bound in morocco, and Russia leather, with gilt leaves." "To give a particular account," continues the Compiler, "of themany scarce editionsof books in this Catalogue would be almost endless, therefore thefirst editionsof the Classics, and someextremely rare booksare chiefly noticed. The catalogue, without any doubt, contains the best, rarest, and most valuable collection ofGreekandLatin Booksthat were ever sold in England." This account is not overcharged. The collection, in regard to Greek and Roman literature, wasuniquein its day.
The late worthy and learned Mr. M.Cracherode, whose library now forms one of the most splendid acquisitions of the British Museum, and whosebequestof it will immortalize his memory, was also among the "Emptores literarii" at this renowned sale. He had enriched his collection with manyExemplar Askevianum; and, in his latter days, used to elevate his hands and eyes, and exclaim against the pricesnowoffered forEditiones Principes!
The fact is, Dr. Askew's sale has been considered a sort ofærain bibliography. Since that period, rare and curious books in Greek and Latin literature have been greedily sought after, and obtained at most extravagant prices. It is very well for a veteran in bibliography, as was Mr. Cracherode, or as are Mr. Wodhull and Dr. Gosset, whose collections were formed in the days of Gaignat, Askew, Duke de la Valliere, and Lamoignon—it is very well for such gentlemen to declaim againstmodern prices! But what is to be done? Books grow scarcer every day, and the love of literature, and of possessing rare and interesting works, increases in an equal ratio. Hungry bibliographers meet, at sales, with well furnished purses, and are resolved upon sumptuous fare. Thus the hammervibrates, after a bidding ofForty pounds, where formerly it used regularly tofallatFour!
But we lose sight of Dr. Askew'srare editions, andlarge paper copies. The following, gentle Reader, is but an imperfect specimen!
After this melancholy event, one would have thought that futureVirtuosiwould have barricadoed their doors, and fumigated their chambers, to keep out such a pest;—but how few are they who profit by experience, even when dearly obtained! The subsequent history of the disease is a striking proof of the truth of this remark; for the madness of book-collecting rather increased—and the work of death still went on. Inthe year 1776 died John Ratcliffe[47]another, and a very singular, instance of the fatality of theBibliomania. If he had contented himself with his former occupation, and frequented the butter and cheese, instead of the book, market—if he could havefancied himselfin a brown peruke, and Russian apron, instead of an embroidered waistcoat, velvet breeches, and flowing perriwig, he might, perhaps, have enjoyed greater longevity; but, infatuated by the Caxtons and Wynkyn De Wordes of Fletewode and of West, he fell into the snare; and the more he struggled to disentangle himself, the more certainly did he become a prey to the disease.
[47]Bibliotheca Ratcliffiana; or, "A Catalogue of the elegant and truly valuable Library ofJohn Ratcliffe, Esq. late of Bermondsey, deceased. The whole collected with great judgment and expense, during the last thirty years of his life: comprehending a large and most choice collection of the rare old Englishblack-letter, in fine preservation, and in elegant bindings, printed byCaxton,Lettou,Machlinia, the anonymous St. Albans Schoolmaster, Wynkyn de Worde, Pynson, Berthelet, Grafton, Day, Newberie, Marshe, Jugge, Whytchurch, Wyer, Rastell, Coplande, and the rest of theOld English Typographers: several missals and MSS., and two Pedigrees on vellum, finely illuminated." The title page then sets forth a specimen of these black-lettered gems; among which our eyes are dazzled with a galaxy of Caxtons, Wynkyn de Wordes, Pynsons, &c. &c. The sale took place on March 27, 1776.If ever there was auniquecollection, this was one—the very essence of Old Divinity, Poetry, Romances, and Chronicles! The articles were only 1675 in number, but their intrinsic value amply compensated for their paucity.The following is but an inadequate specimen.NO.£s.d.1315.Horace's Arte of Poetrie, Pistles and Satyres, by Drant. 1567,first English edition01661321.The Sheparde's Calender, 1579. Whetstone's Castle of Delight, 15761201392.The Pastyme of the People, printed by Rastell. Curious wood cuts. A copy of this book is not now to be procured. I have known £40 offered for it, and rejected with disdain7701403.Barclay's Shyp of Folys, printed by Pynson, 1508,first edit.fine copy21001426.The Doctrinal of Sapyence, printed byCaxton, 14898801427.The Boke, called Cathon,ditto, 1483.Purchased by Dr. Hunter, and now in his Museum5501428.The Polytyque Boke, named Tullius de Senectute, in Englishe, byCaxton, 1481.Purchased for his Majesty14001429.The Game of Chesse Playe. 147416001665.The Boke of Jason, printed byCaxton51001669.The Polychronicon of Ranulph Higden, printed byCaxton, 1482.Purchased by Dr. Hunter51561670.Legenda Aurea, or the Golden Legende 148391501674.Mr. Ratcliffe's MS. Catalogues of therare old black letter, and other curious and uncommon books, 4 vols.7150This would have been the most delicious article tomypalate. If the present owner of it were disposed to part with it, I could not find it in my heart to refuse himcompound interestfor his money. As is the wooden frame-work to the bricklayer in the construction of his arch, so might Mr. Ratcliffe's MS. Catalogues be to me in the compilation of a certainmagnum opus!The memory of such a man ought to be dear to the "black-lettered dogs" of the present day; for he had [mirabile dictu!]upwards ofThirty Caxtons!If I might hazard a comparison between Mr. James West's and Mr. John Ratcliffe's collections, I should say that the former was more extensive, the latter more curious: Mr. West's, like a magnificentchampagne, executed by the hand of Claude or Both, and enclosing mountains, and meadows, and streams, presented to the eye of the beholder a scene at once extensive, luxuriant, and fruitful: Mr. Ratcliffe's, like one of those delicious pieces of scenery, touched by the pencil of Rysdael or Hobbima, exhibited to the beholder's eye a spot equally interesting, but less varied and extensive. The sweeping foliage and rich pasture of the former could not, perhaps, afford greater gratification than did the thatched cottage, abrupt declivities, and gushing streams of the latter. To change the metaphor—Mr. West's was a magnificent repository, Mr. Ratcliffe's a choice cabinet of gems.
[47]Bibliotheca Ratcliffiana; or, "A Catalogue of the elegant and truly valuable Library ofJohn Ratcliffe, Esq. late of Bermondsey, deceased. The whole collected with great judgment and expense, during the last thirty years of his life: comprehending a large and most choice collection of the rare old Englishblack-letter, in fine preservation, and in elegant bindings, printed byCaxton,Lettou,Machlinia, the anonymous St. Albans Schoolmaster, Wynkyn de Worde, Pynson, Berthelet, Grafton, Day, Newberie, Marshe, Jugge, Whytchurch, Wyer, Rastell, Coplande, and the rest of theOld English Typographers: several missals and MSS., and two Pedigrees on vellum, finely illuminated." The title page then sets forth a specimen of these black-lettered gems; among which our eyes are dazzled with a galaxy of Caxtons, Wynkyn de Wordes, Pynsons, &c. &c. The sale took place on March 27, 1776.
If ever there was auniquecollection, this was one—the very essence of Old Divinity, Poetry, Romances, and Chronicles! The articles were only 1675 in number, but their intrinsic value amply compensated for their paucity.
The following is but an inadequate specimen.
The memory of such a man ought to be dear to the "black-lettered dogs" of the present day; for he had [mirabile dictu!]upwards ofThirty Caxtons!
If I might hazard a comparison between Mr. James West's and Mr. John Ratcliffe's collections, I should say that the former was more extensive, the latter more curious: Mr. West's, like a magnificentchampagne, executed by the hand of Claude or Both, and enclosing mountains, and meadows, and streams, presented to the eye of the beholder a scene at once extensive, luxuriant, and fruitful: Mr. Ratcliffe's, like one of those delicious pieces of scenery, touched by the pencil of Rysdael or Hobbima, exhibited to the beholder's eye a spot equally interesting, but less varied and extensive. The sweeping foliage and rich pasture of the former could not, perhaps, afford greater gratification than did the thatched cottage, abrupt declivities, and gushing streams of the latter. To change the metaphor—Mr. West's was a magnificent repository, Mr. Ratcliffe's a choice cabinet of gems.
Thirty years have been considered by Addison (somewhere in his Spectator) as a pretty accurate period for the passing away of one generation and the coming on of another. We have brought down our researches to within a similar period of the present times; but, as Addison has not made out the proofs of such assertion, and as many of the relatives and friends of those who have fallen victims to theBibliomania, since the days of Ratcliffe, may yet be alive; moreover, as it is the part of humanity not to tear open wounds which have been just closed, or awaken painful sensibilities which have been well nigh laid to rest; so, my dear Sir, in giving you a further account of this fatal disorder, Ideem it the most prudent methodnot to expatiateupon the subsequent examples of its mortality. We can only mourn over such names asBeauclerk,Crofts,Pearson,Lort,Mason,Farmer,Steevens,Woodhouse,Brand, andReed! and fondly hope that the list may not be increased by those of living characters!
We are, in thesecondplace, to describe theSymptoms of the Disease.
The ingenious Peignot, in the first volume of his 'Dictionnaire Bibliologie,' p. 51, defines the Bibliomania[48]to be "a passion for possessing books; notso much to be instructed by them, as to gratify the eye by looking on them. He who is affected by this mania knows books only by their titles and dates, and is rather seduced by the exterior than interior"! This is, perhaps, too general and vague a definition to be of much benefit in the knowledge, and consequent prevention, of the disease: let us, therefore, describe it more certainly and intelligibly.
[48]There is a short, but smart and interesting, article on this head in Mr. D'Israeli'sCuriosities of Literature, vol. 1. 10. "Bruyere has touched on this mania with humour; of such a collector (one who is fond of superb bindings only) says he, as soon as I enter his house, I am ready to faint on the stair-case from a strong smell of morocco leather. In vain he shows me fine editions, gold leaves, Etruscan bindings, &c.—naming them one after another, as if he were showing a gallery of pictures!" Lucian has composed a biting invective against an ignorant possessor of a vast library. "One who opens his eyes, with an hideous stare, at an old book, and, after turning over the pages, chiefly admires thedateof its publication."
[48]There is a short, but smart and interesting, article on this head in Mr. D'Israeli'sCuriosities of Literature, vol. 1. 10. "Bruyere has touched on this mania with humour; of such a collector (one who is fond of superb bindings only) says he, as soon as I enter his house, I am ready to faint on the stair-case from a strong smell of morocco leather. In vain he shows me fine editions, gold leaves, Etruscan bindings, &c.—naming them one after another, as if he were showing a gallery of pictures!" Lucian has composed a biting invective against an ignorant possessor of a vast library. "One who opens his eyes, with an hideous stare, at an old book, and, after turning over the pages, chiefly admires thedateof its publication."
Symptoms of this disease are instantly known by a passion for I.Large Paper Copies: II.Uncut Copies: III.Illustrated Copies: IV.Unique Copies: V.Copies printed upon Vellum: VI.First Editions: VII.True Editions: VIII.A general desire for the Black Letter. We will describe these symptoms more particularly.
I.Large Paper Copies.These are a certain set or limited number of the work printed in a superior manner, both in regard to ink and press work, on paper of a larger size, and better quality, than the ordinary copies. Their price is enhanced in proportion to their beauty and rarity. In the note below[49]are specified a fewworks which have been published in this manner, that the sober collector may avoid approaching them.