1829. · London:
by [Locke, John].
4to, period full calf stamped in gilt with the arms of George M. Fortescue, raised spine bands, morocco lettering pieces, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt, engraved frontispiece portrait of Locke; engraved facsimile plate of his handwriting, xi, [1], 407, [1] pp. Spine rubbed, covers less so; foxing to the plates and adjacent leaves including title, signature and inscription of previous owner on front endpaper; otherwise very good. Locke (1631-1704) was an important English philosopher whose writings contributed significantly to modern political liberalism. He is believed to be the inspiration for both the Enlightenment and the Constitution of the United States. His writings addressed the importance of the "social contract between citizens, and the importance of religious tolerance. This is a presentation copy inscribed on the half-title "To the Honble. Geo. Fortescue from the author." First edition of the first full-scale, separately published life of John Locke, also containing the first publication of any portion of Locke's manuscript papers, all of which were bequeathed to Locke's heirs. King was a direct descendent of Locke (and was related by marriage to George Fortescue, the recipient of this copy). Britannica online website. ODNB.
(Inventory #: 106390)