2 volumes, folio: [24]-666-[9]-[1 bl.], [18]-608-67-[1] pp. (some minor spotting or soiling; volume I: small repair at part title; volume II: lacking title and author's portrait, leaves 2N2-3 reinforced at blank fore-edge margin). - This extensively illustrated edition presents the collected works (first published in 1655) of Jacob Cats (1577-1660). Engraved illustrations include 2 title vignettes, 1 endpiece, a title page with the author's portrait, a full-page author's portrait by Michael Natalis after Dubordieu, a full-page portrait of Anna Maria Schurman by S.V. Lamsweerde (fully underlaid), 3 exquisite double-page plates such as "Afbeeldinghe des huwelyx onder de gedaente van een fuyk" by A. vander Venne, 3 full-page plates, 9 illustrations on part-titles, and approximately 450 emblematic illustrations throughout the text. Also included are his two last works: "Twee-en-tachtig-jarig leven", an autobiography in verse, and "Gedachten op slapeloose nachten". Beyond showcasing Jacob Cats' literary talent, this work provides a remarkable insight into everyday life in the 17th century. - Emblem books Leiden 144.

Half sheep binding from the 19th century, with red paper covering the boards and spines featuring raised bands (lightly rubbed, with slight bumping at the sides and corners). Overall, a good copy.