PLUTARCH [ΠΛΟΥΤΑΡΧΟΣ], Jacques AMYOT (ed.),

“Les Oeuvres Morales et Meslees de Plutarque”, Michel de Vascosan, Paris, 1575. 4to, Complete in two (2) volumes, ff. [10], 1-357; 359-668, [93] numbered sheets.

[TOGETHER WITH]

“Les Vies des Hommes Illustres Grecs et Romains”, François le Preux, Paris & Lausanne, 1575. 4to, Complete in two (2) volumes, pp. [16], 3-728; 729-1336, [44].  Printer’s device on title and colophon.

The complete two works in 4 Volumes. Scarce and prized editions printed in large 4to, of the influential translation in French of Plutarch’s work by the French bishop and classical scholar Jacques Amyot. His work on Plutarch is considered as an important contribution to the development of Renaissance humanism in France and England.

Chapter ornaments, head & tailpieces, woodcut engraved initials & 50 small woodcut portraits within borders in “Les vies”. Contemporary full tree-calf, spines richly ornamented  with fleuron motifs & pointillé tooling, title and volume number in gilt on red morocco strips on each volume. All edges red. Fine ex-libris label in gilt “Βιβλιοθήκη Σπ. Λοβέρδου” on pastedowns.

Extensive soiling of 1st volume title page, spotting and overall light damp-staining mainly on first and last leaves of each volume, water-stain on 1st vol. of “Les Vies”. External wear along edges, corners and joints, small chipped parts of spines heads & feet, two vols. With partly cracked the upper part of front joints, covers with scratches and bumping spots.

Adams 1625 (Les vies), Adams 1643 (for the 1574 ed. Of Morales), Ebert-Browne 1440