Written in Latin in 1509 and first printed in 1511, Erasmus’ satirical essay is considered to be one of the most notable works of the Renaissance and played an important role in the beginnings of the Protestant Reformation. Erasmus attacks the corruption found within the Roman Catholic Church and the pretensions and weaknesses of European society in Folly’s celebration of youth, pleasure, drunkenness and sexual desire. Small folio, vi + 87 pp. Woodcuts and ornamental borders drawn by William Strang and cut by Bernard Sleigh. The original parchment-backed decorative paper-covered boards, with yapp edges and gilt lettering to the spine, are protected with a cellophane cover and loose tissue-guards protect the full-page illustrations. Inside the front cover is a bookplate, with the motto Invictus Maneo and the name Collin Armstrong – might the sleeved arm suggest a jester’s costume?