(BOEHME, Jacob.)
A compendious view of the grounds of the Teutonick philosophy. With considerations by way of enquiry into the subject matter, and scope of the writings of Jacob Behmen, commonly called the Teutonick Philosopher. Also several extracts from his writings. And some words used by him explained. Published by a Gentleman retired from business.
London: by M. Lewis and sold by Bathurst, Baker, Whiston ,White, Richardson and Roberts, C. Dilly, Davis and Heard in London, Woodyer and Merril at Cambridge, Kendal at Colchester, Mills at Bath, Binns at Halifax, Binns, Ogle and Copperthwaite at Leeds, Megget and Stringer at Wakefield, Brook at Huthersfield, Mercer at Maidstone and Burden at Winchester, 1770.
12mo (100 × 177 mm.), pp. xxxiv, [1], xxxii-xxxiv, [4], 91, [1], 159, [1], 113, [1]. Typographical ornaments. Library blindstamp (Worcester Public library) to title. Rebound in modern half calf. A very good copy.
First edition of this Behmenite collection, serving as an introduction to Boehme's theosophical system. It includes A treatise of eternal nature by the seventeenth-century English disciple John Pordage. It is a scarce edition, with an interesting provincial circulation, but is an example of one of many late eighteenth-century popular works on Boehme, reflecting a heightened interest (especially in artisan and radical context) in his visionary teachings. It is significant that many of Boehme's formulations prefigure the transcendent writings of William Blake, who was steeped in the Behmenist tradition.
£450.00
US$894.55*
* Given as a guide only. Based on an exchange rate of £1 = US$1.987896 for the day 5 July 2008 but liable to fluctuate.
5 July 2008