1741 The Pantheon — Fabulous Histories of the Heathen Gods and Most Illustrious Heroes | Rare

A handsome and scarce/highly collectible 1741 edition of The Pantheon; Representing the Fabulous Histories of the Heathen Gods and Most Illustrious Heroes, by Andrew Tooke. This is the Fifteenth Edition, printed in London by D. Midwinter and others, and issued in a beautiful contemporary full leather binding with gilt-dotted tooling, decorative raised bands, diamond pink ornaments, and a striking pink morocco spine label.

The Pantheon became one of the most widely used English works on classical mythology, drawing upon Greek and Roman sources to present the genealogies, attributes, and narratives of the ancient gods and heroes. This edition is illustrated throughout with 28 engraved plates, depicting mythological figures and scenes that bring the classical world vividly to life.

The work reflects the Enlightenment fascination with antiquity and classical learning, and its illustrations broaden its appeal beyond literary scholarship to collectors of mythology, classical art, and early book illustration. Along with the full-page copperplate engravings are numerous decorative woodcut headpieces and initials throughout. The engravings depict the Olympian gods, heroes, infernal deities, and mythological scenes with remarkable clarity and drama, making this an especially appealing copy for collectors of classical literature, mythology, and early illustrated books.

Works of this type—mid-eighteenth-century, fully illustrated, and complete—are increasingly scarce on the retail market, particularly in sound, presentable condition.

Binding is solid and attractive with expected age-related wear. Hinges tight/sound. Internally, pages show light toning and occasional spotting consistent with age; text and illustrations are crisp and legible throughout. 360pp.

Very Rare Book

Condition: Very good for age. 

Size: 4 1/2” x 7”