Bunyan, Pilgrim's Progress, 1682, contemporary calf

John Bunyan

The pilgrim's progress from this world, to that which is to come: delivered under the similitude of a dream... the eighth edition with additions. London: for Nathanael Ponder, 1682

12mo (143 x 83mm.), woodcut illustrations on G1, H1 and K6v, last two leaves containing advertisements, contemporary English calf, lacking A1 (containing advertisement and woodcut), B1 defective at foot (with loss of several lines of text), B6 torn without loss, upper corner of F3 torn away with loss of some words, small marginal wormhole in quire G, slightly soiled, binding somewhat worn, spine defective at head and foot

Bunyan's most famous work was first published in 1678, towards the end of his life when he was an active Dissenting preacher, and it became "one of the most popular books ever printed" (ODNB) with its call to embrace a Christian life while retaining liberty of conscience. At least eleven editions were printed during his lifetime and they are all RARE AT AUCTION.

PROVENANCE

George G[--], early inscription at end; Samuel Jones, printed booklabel

LITERATURE

ESTC R42808, listing 6 copies (2 in the UK, Bedford Central Library and the British Library, and 4 in the US); Wing B5568