DONNE, John (1573-1631). LXXX Sermons. London: Printed [by Miles Flesher] for Richard Royston and Richard Marriot, 1640 [Bound with:] Fifty Sermons … The Second Volume. London: Ja. Flesher for M[iles] F[lesher], J. Marriot, and R. Royston, 1649.

First editions of two folio collections of Donne's darkly elegant sermons, edited by his son. Although born into a recusant family, Donne became an Anglican priest in 1615. His sermons, which combine his poetic flair with innovative theological thought, were printed posthumously by his son in a series of publications. The first of these contains Izaak Walton's biography of the poet. The second was delayed due to fears about the reception from Cromwell's Commonwealth government and, according to Keynes, is scarcer than the first. I: STC (2nd ed.), 7038; Keynes 29. II: Wing D-1862; Keynes 30.

Two works bound in one, folio (348 x 230mm). Lacking engraved additional title from first work. Both title pages with woodcut printer's marks (a few small spots and holes, second work with some toning). 17th or 18th-century calf gilt (rebacked, edges worn, flyleaf detached). Provenance: short inscription on title of first work - Charles Bruce, 3rd Earl of Ailesbury, Viscount Bruce of Ampthill, 1682-1747 (engraved armorial bookplate).