"The Father of English Political Economy"- Marx
Political Anatomy of Ireland. With the establishment for that kingdom when the late Duke of Ormond was Lord Lieutenant. Taken from the records. To which is added Verbum sapienti; or an account of the wealth and expences of England, and the method of raising taxes in the most equal manner. Shewing also, that the nation can bear the charge of four millions per annum, when the occasions of the government require it.
London: Printed for D. Brown, and W. Rogers, 1691.
First edition. Small octavo (6 5/8 x 4 3/16 inches; 168 x 106 mm). [16], 205, [1, blank], [2, half-title], 24, [4, blank] pp. Part two, "Verbum sapienti", has a separate half-title and separate pagination but collation is continuous.
Contemporary blind paneled calf, rebacked to style. Spine with red morocco spine label, lettered in gilt. Gilt board edges. All edges speckled red. Edges a bit bumped and rubbed. Some chipping to boards where clasps have been removed. Some minor toning and a bit of light soiling throughout. Remnants of a removed bookplate on front pastedown. Overall a very good copy.
"The key figure in the development of an agrarian model in English political economy is William Petty. Petty is widely acknowledged to be a founder of classical political economy. Marx dubbed him 'the father of English political economy' and praised his 'audacious genius.'" (Political Economy and the Rise of Capitalism, David McNally).
"Sir William Petty (1623--1687), political economist, served as administrator in Ireland under Cromwell and Charles II. He completed the survey of Ireland, published an accurate map of the island, and worked throughout his life for the improvement of the English administration of that country, particularly in financial matters. He was the valued friend of Pepys and Evelyn, and author of various treatises on taxes, currency, economy and government, including the first book on vital statistics, a study of London. Although the Political Anatomy was written in 1672, this is its first publication. Also appearing in this volume, for the first time, is Petty’s essay Verbum Sapienti, a study of the English tax system." (Howell)
Goldsmiths' 2868. Kress 1769. Wing P1931.
HBS 68245.
$6,500.
Price: $6,500.00
Item #68245