Matthew Prior — Poems on Several Occasions

London, Jacob Tonson, 1718. First edition. Leather. The first edition of this selected poetry collection of Matthew Prior, containing a variety of his best known works, illustrated with a frontispiece. The first edition of this work.The poetry of Matthew Prior.ESTC citation number T75639.Illustrated with a frontispiece.Prior was a notable poet and diplomat of the Stuart and Georgian eras, known for his contributions to 'The Examiner&apos. He had an affluent career in government before the Whigs regained power after the death of Queen Anne, resulting in Prior being impeached by Robert Walpole. For two years he was kept in a close custody, writing poetry during this time.Including his best known works, 'Solomon' and 'Alma&apos. Prior's poetry showed his variety and great scholarship, imbued with essential humour. List of subscribers is present. In a full panelled calf binding. Externally, the front board is detached but present. Some rubbing to the boards and spine, rubbing resulting in some loss of leather to the boards and spine. A little loss to the head and tail of the spine. Rear joint is starting. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are lightly age-toned and generally clean, with a few light spots and handling marks. Light edge wear to the text block, with some small chips and closed tears to some pages. larger chips to the first contents leaf. Prior owner's ink inscription to the tail of the title page, and to the last leaf of text. The occasional ink underlining to the text. Bound without leaf T2. Good Only . Ill.: Not Stated. Good Only .