First Edition. "On the origin, traditions, and language of the Ancient Britons, with some introductory sketches on primitive society". This first edition is the work of the Welsh writer and Anglican clergyman known as Edward 'Celtic' Davies. This, his most important work, examines the origins of the Celtic language and the meaning of Celtic mythology. Romantic poet William Blake took a keen interest in Davies' publications.
8vo (Medium). Original half calf binding with marbled boards. One corner missing cover. Gilt bands and lettering to spine. Some marks and scuffs to boards, slight crack in front hinge but holding strong. Shelf wear to edges of boards and spine. Armorial bookplate to front pastedown of Thomas Hammond Foxcroft (1765-1821), a landowner in Halstead, Yorkshire who is mentioned as a subscriber at the front of the book. Internal pages clean and bright. Binding tight and firm. Overall a very well preserved copy of this work.
