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Title: Regia Via Crucis, 1728
Author: Benedictus van Haeften
Publisher: Antwerp, Henrici Verdussen
Condition: Very Good
An early 18th century edition of von Haeften’s Regia via Crucis, the devotional emblem work which was not just used to educate readers on the significance of the Stations of the Cross, but also to inspire an imitation of Christ, and understand the pathway to Paradise. This is a later re-issue of the first edition of Moretus in 1635, with the same engraved title after Rubens and the engravings by Galle.
Of Haefton himself, he was the Provost of Affligem Abbey, and a writer of religious works in general. Regia via Crucis proved to be his most popular work, printed in several dozen editions and in various translations.
This work features 38 full page emblems engraved by Corneille Galle, with the title page having been designed by master artist Peter Paul Rubens. Each emblem is a different representation of the symbol of the Cross, bearing a different title and quote per engraving. The title has been handwritten on the spine.
Of the title page itself, Haeften commissioned Rubens to design it, which would then be engraved by Galle. When the initial design was presented, Haeften disputed that the image of St. Teresa of Avila was too scantily clad, and that she be more modestly dressed. This stands in stark contrast to the lack of dressing on the figure across her.
This book bears an ownership stamp from a college of the Society of Jesus, in Antwerp.
One finely bound volume in octavo, XVI+404+(24) pages
This volume is in very good shape, with some rubbing and wear to the binding. There is very little foxing or staining throughout.