First quarto edition, and the first published Bodoni edition, one of 50 copies on fine paper. Quarto. Printed throughout in Greek and Latin majuscules. Finely bound in contemporary full red morocco, elaborately decorated in gilt to covers and spine. All edges gilt.
 
A near fine copy, spine very slightly faded, with some minor rubbing to the joints.
 
Brooks states that 250 copies were printed on ‘blue’ paper, 50 on fine paper (like this one), and 5 each on two types of superfine paper.
 
‘The editions of 1785 and 1791 are printed in capital letters, and more elegant and exquisitely finished productions cannot be conceived’ (Dibdin).
 
PROVENANCE: The Earl Of Cromer, Lord Chamberlain (1877-1953), his bookplate (engraved 1912 by J.F. Badeley) to front pastedown; sold at his sale, Sothebys, June 18th, 1934 (lot 39, £4 to Maggs).