PIA DESIDERIA, VIZ. 1. Gemitus Animae Poenitentis, 2. Vota Animae Sanctae, 3. Suspira Animae Amantis.
London: E. & R. Pawlet, Chancery Lane, 1703.
"Editio Postrema Recognita & Emandata. 32mo. [xvi], 182p, (ix, syllabus), (vii, ads). Illustrated with 46 engraved emblem plates, including half-title. Bound in full paneled calf, the cover frames and spine panels ornamented in blind, text block edges stained red, gilt spine title on a black ground. Slightest wear with minimal stain to rear cover, about fine. Item #20508
Two bookplates.
"...the theme [of Pia Desideria is] the search of the human soul for holiness. The plates of Pia Desideria are mainly representations of the adventures of Anima and the Infant Jesus: they show Divine Love making his creatures of clay while Anima looks on and wonders, Divine Love sitting in judgment while Justice brings the guilty human soul before him, Divine Love stretching out a rescuing arm to Anima who is shipwrecked and almost lost in the stormy waters." (Freeman. English Emblem Books, p. 117).
Wing 3349, 3350, 3351 for editions of 1677, 1686, 1690.
"The last two books of Quarles' Emblems are exactly copied from Hugo." (Lowndes II, p. 1136 for 1677 and 1686).
Price: $875.00