The Works of the Famous Nicolas Machiavel, Citizen and Secretary of Florence: The History of Florence; The Prince; The Discourses of Nicholas Machiavel; The Art of War In Seven Books.

First edition in English of the most important writings of Niccolo Machiavelli, widely considered the foundation of the modern study of politics. Includes The History of Florence, The Prince, Discourses on Livy, and The Art of War. Folio bound in three quarter modern calf over marbled boards with gilt-lettered morocco spine label, modern endpapers but retaining early binder's flyleaves, engraved ornamental initials, headpieces. Without the general title, frontispiece or ads sometimes encountered. Included is “Nicholas Machiavel’s Letter to Zanobius Buondelmontius in Vindication of Himself and His Writings,” which was in fact authored by Henry Neville, the translator of this edition. There are two issues of this work in 1675: one with the general title page imprint, “Printed for John Starkey” (this copy), and another, “Printed for J.S.” Separate title pages for The History of Florence, The Prince, The Discourses, and The Art of War (as issued). French inscription to the front binder's flyleaf, marginal toning and spotting throughout, toning to the spine. In very good condition. A very sharp example.