1695 Rare Book - Prince Arthur, An Heroick Poem by Sir Richard Blackmore
A monumental 17th-century epic in a richly aged morocco binding, echoing the heroic and Miltonic tradition of English poetry.
Author: Richard Blackmore.
Title: Prince Arthur: An Heroick Poem. In Ten Books.
Publisher: London, printed for Awnsham Churchill and John Churchill, 1695. Second Edition (stated).
Language: Text in English.
Size: 13 x 8.5 inches.
Pages: Preface, 296 pages + index.
Binding: Very good restored contemporary full dark brown straight-grained morocco leather binding; expertly rebacked in antique style using fine matching brown straight-grained morocco; boards richly patinated with expected age wear, scuffing, and natural surface markings; remains a handsome and imposing period binding (hinges fine) under a protective, removable mylar cover.
Content: Very good content; text generally clean and well preserved; staining to the lower inner corner of pages, not affecting the readability of the text (as shown); a solid and complete copy.
Estimate: (USD 900–1,500).
The book: A striking example of late 17th-century English epic poetry, Prince Arthur was conceived in the grand tradition of classical and Miltonic verse. First published in 1695, this second edition reflects the contemporary ambition to elevate English literature through heroic narrative and national myth. The work draws upon Arthurian legend while embedding moral, political, and religious themes characteristic of the period. Its large format and refined typographical presentation enhance its presence as both a literary and physical artifact of Restoration-era publishing.
The author: Sir Richard Blackmore (1654–1729) was an English physician and poet, known for his ambitious epic poems that sought to rival those of classical antiquity and John Milton. Though sometimes criticized by his contemporaries, Blackmore played a significant role in shaping late 17th-century literary culture, particularly in promoting moral and didactic poetry aligned with Protestant values.