An Historical and Critical Account of the Theatres in Europe. Viz. The Italian, Spanish, French, English, Dutch, Flemish, and German Theatres. In which is contain'd A Review of the Manner, Persons and Character of the Actors; intermix'd with many Curious Dissertations upon the Drama . Together with Two Celebrated Essays : viz. An Essay on Action, or, The Art of Speaking in Public: And, A Comparison of the Ancient and Modern Drama. By the famous Lewis Riccoboni of the Italian Theatre at Paris. The Whole illustrated with Notes by the Author and Translator.
London: Printed for T. Waller, in the Temple; and R. Dodsley, 1741. First English edition of one of the best known eighteenth century commentaries on the European theater. Engraved half-title, headbands, tailpieces, vignettes, and initial letters. Boards browned and rubbed, binding extremities rubbed with a chip at foot of spine. Spine label has some minor wear and chips. Light foxing in addition to small marginal tear to T1, just touching but with no loss. Former owner's bookplate. A good copy. Vellum over marbled boards with black leather spine label lettered in gilt. Edges sprinkled red. Octavo. [16], 333, [+19, catalogue and table] pp. Item #16209
According to the translator's preface, "Mr. Riccoboni [1676-1753], author of the following pieces, has equally distinguish'd himself as an Actor, and a Critic. He is by birth an Italian...and His turn for the Stage seems to have led him into a very tedious and laborious Pursuit of the Manner in which it may be render'd at once entertaining and improving. For this Purpose he visited all the stages in Europe, and in the following Historical Account is the Result of all his curious Researches." He also adds that "from this short review [he hopes it will] appear of what Importance the Stage is even in a Political Sense, in keeping alive that Spirit which forms the true Character of every People. [And he hopes] the following pages may give some useful Hints towards a farther Improvement of it here in Britain."
Price: $750.00