A Translation of the Inferno of Dante Alighieri, in English Verse, Henry Boyd, 1785

A Translation of the Inferno of Dante Alighieri, in English Verse, with Historical Notes, and the Life of Dante. To Which is Added, A Specimen of a New Translation of the Orlando Furioso of Ariosto. By Henry Boyd. 2 Volume set complete. (ESTC: T127831).

Translated by Henry Boyd (c. 1750-1832), an Irish cleric. This work was published by subscription, and Dublin and London editions printed in the same year of 1785. Boyd went on to produce a full three volume translation of Dante's Divine Comedy (Divina Commedia), in 1802.

Published by C. Dilly, London, 1785. First London edition. A scarce, rare edition, seldom offered for sale in modern times. In two volumes, complete. ESTC lists just 17 copies worldwide in institutional libraries.

A set of two fine hardbacks with later tan leather calf binding to spine and corners, with raised bands and gilt titles, with brown morroco labels. Just a little bumping and wear. Soundly bound. Marbled endpapers. No ownership inscriptions or labels.

A handsome set with bright and clean text throughout. Top edge is gilt and still shiny. Vertical edge of text block with some light marginal edge spotting. Lower edge (and occasional vertical edge) have some uneven rough cut pages, as issued.

Some light spotting to endpapers. A small nibbled marginal loss to first title page along the lower rough cut edge. Occasional minor mark, but overall a most attractive set of this scarce London printing.

Text in English.

Vol I: viii +367pp;

Vol II: 454pp.

Weight approximately 1200g (the set - unpacked).

Dimensions: Each volume approximately 195mm high x 129mm wide x 30-34mm deep.