The Rosicrucians Their Rites & Mysteries by Hargrave Jennings
Publication: 1870 John Camden Hotten; London First Edition
A very scarce first edition of The Rosicrucians: Their Rites and Mysteries by Hargrave Jennings (1870). First editions are often found in poor condition, making this presentable copy all the more desirable.
Well-known work by British occultist Hargrave Jennings, whose fascination with phallic symbolism and fire worship is explored in this study of the secretive Rosicrucian order. Making connections to ancient religions, alchemy, astrology, and symbolic traditions. Rather than offering a straightforward historical account, the book delves into mystical interpretations and hidden meanings behind their symbols. Jennings was later critized by A.E. Waite in his book The Real History of the Rosicrucians. Waite called Jennings imaginative but unreliable, accusing him of indulging in speculative and sensational interpretations, which obviously did not meet Waite’s more scholarly standards…On a personal note, I believe Waite truly emphasized the “Real” in his title as a jab at his frustration with Jennings' work. Petty or not? Depends on intention i suppose.
note: there is indication that the cross on the spine may have been touched up but it is hard to confirm. If it is the case this was professionally done, i have taken this into account in the pricing.
Condition: publishers bright blue cloth, gilt title to spine with rosy cross design to cover and spine, ffep along the gutter a bit exposed but binding is firm all around, small pen inscription to title page, it seems the textblock sits low on the text block by around 1cm- publishers error, corners exposed but tight, pages are clean, overall a bright copy in Very Good condition