Identification points are listed only where two independent sources agree. Last reviewed 19 Oct 2026.
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A folio dated 1651 with an engraved additional title (the crowned giant, etched by Abraham Bosse, imprint 'London printed for Andrew Crooke 1651') before the letterpress title, and a folding letterpress table. At least two later editions also carry the date 1651, so the date proves nothing. The first is recognised by the woodcut ornament on the letterpress title, a winged head or mask set in scrollwork, which is why it is called the head edition. Pagination is irregular ([6], 248, 247-256, 261-396) and the errata are at the foot of A3 verso. References: Wing H2246, Macdonald and Hargreaves 42, Pforzheimer 491, PMM 138. Check that the engraved title and the folding table are both present, as either may be missing.
This is the title page of a first edition copy. Compare yours: the imprint at the foot, the publisher, place and date, should match exactly. A later printing or edition usually changes the date or adds a line.
Title page of the first edition (1651). Scan: Tisch Library, via the Internet Archive. Public domain.
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Check these points. Letterpress title page: woodcut ornament of a winged head or mask in scrollwork. Each point is confirmed by at least two independent sources.
Andrew Crooke, London, in 1651, in hardback.
Points of issue are listed only where at least two independent sources agree. Last reviewed 19 October 2026.
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