BRACTON, Henry of (c.1210-c.1268). Legibus & consuetudinibus Angliae. Libri quinqu. London: Richard Tottle, 1569.

Large paper copy with important Elizabethan provenance, having belonged to Robert Glover. This classic treatise of English common law promulgated, among much else, Bracton’s concept of mens rea (criminal intent) and of precedence. Very fine first edition, Herschel V. Jones copy. This work presents “a formulation of principles which have determined the whole development of English law, of which the use of precedents is perhaps the most characteristic” (PMM). Probably written between 1250 and 1260, Bracton's work was cited in court up to the 18th century. This is the variant with “Cum privilegio” at foot of title.

This book’s apparent first owner was Robert Glover, 1544-1588, an officer of arms and genealogist. Two years after publication, in 1571, Glover gained the rank of Somerset Herald of Arms. “He was considered to be unrivalled for the extent and accuracy of his professional knowledge, and was recognized as an authority by the highest officials” (Raines, introduction to Flower’s Visitation of the County Palatine, Manchester, 1870, p.xii). Glover’s work also contributed meaningfully to Camden’s Brittania. Fol. 65 bears a marginalia note illustrating a point of genealogical law. PMM 89; STC 3475.

Folio (310 x 220mm). Woodcut initials. (A scattered few very minor stains including mild soiling to title and a splash on 4K1, blank corner torn from S4, closed marginal tear to 4K4, a couple of tiny wormholes in extreme outer margin at beginning and end.) 19^th century calf gilt, spine gilt in compartments with red morocco lettering pieces (rebacked with original spine laid down, wear to edges). Custom quarter morocco slipcase. Provenance: Robert Glover, 1544-1588 (ownership signature on title-page, note on fol. 65 presumably in his hand) – few other instances of early marginalia – Herschel V. Jones (bookplate; his sale, Anderson Galleries, 23 January 1923, lot 30).