Wotton (Sir Henry) The Elements of Architecture, first edition, with initial blank, woodcut head-piece and initials, B4 a cancel, contemporary ink calculation to margin of one leaf (slightly shaved), title lightly soiled, spotting towards end, initial blank, title and first leaf of Preface frayed at fore-edge (repaired), Q1 torn and repaired, modern calf ruled in blind, [Fowler 445; Harris 948; Millard British 95; STC26011], small 4to, John Bill, 1624.

⁂ The first work on architectural theory to be published in English, written by the retired ambassador to Venice in the hope of being awarded the provostship of Eton College. Wotton knew that the appointment would be decided by George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, a patron of architecture and the arts, and wrote his pamphlet to improve his chances of selection over several rivals including Francis Bacon, presenting special copies to the King, the Prince of Wales and other notable figures. The scheme achieved its aim and he was selected, and despite the haste in which it was produced the work displays learning and connoisseurship. Wotton "was the foremost exponent of Renaissance architectural theory in England and the expositor...of the unpublished ideas of Inigo Jones". (Harris).