CHAUCER, GEOFFREY. 1340?-1400.
The Workes of Our Ancient and learned English Poet, Geffrey Chaucer, newly Printed. Edited by Thomas Speght and Francis Thynne. London: Adam Islip, 1602.
Folio (313 x 210 mm). Title in roman type within woodcut bordre (McKerrow & Ferguson 232), division title with woodcut arms of Chaucer, engraved portrait inserted before b1, woodcut of Knight on B1, black letter, double column, woodcut initials, head- and tail-pieces, with blank A1 and errata leaf; contemporary calf ruled in blind, gilt lettered red morocco spine label. A few small holes to border of title, errata leaf laid down, a few running titles trimmed, touching text, b6 lower right corner torn away affecting shoulder note, some minor marginal tears, repairs or stains, rebacked, old spine laid down, small repair to upper edge and some corners. Provenance: Henry Compton (1632-1713), bishop of London (armorial bookplate dated 1701); Anderdon Bridgewater (armorial bookplate).

Second Thomas Speght edition, seventh edition overall. 'This edition considerably revised mainly with the aid of Francis Thynne. It is the earliest in which thorough punctuation was attempted, and in many other ways it is a distinct improvement upon Speght's first edition. Two hitherto unprinted pieces are inserted, one non-Chaucerian' (Pforzheimer). Grolier Langland to Wither 36; Pforzheimer 178; STC 5080.
For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com