THE DISPLAYING OF SUPPOSED WITCHCRAFT John Webster 1677 London

A Landmark of Esoteric & Skeptical Literature / Rare 17th-Century Witchcraft Treatise

An exceptional opportunity for international collectors: the true first edition (1677) of John Webster’s monumental treatise, "The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft".

This work stands as a fundamental milestone in the history of science and skeptical thought against the witch trials in England. Writing from a medical, rational, and theological perspective, Webster systematically refutes the inquisitorial beliefs regarding corporeal leagues with the Devil, carnal copulation, and zoomorphic transformations (witches turning into cats or dogs). Instead, he attributes these phenomena to fraud, delusion, or severe psychological distress ("melancholy").

This specific copy is enhanced by a splendid contemporary full vellum binding featuring the original owner's initials stamped in gold on the front cover, adding immense historical charm and provenance.

Item Specifications:

• Author: John Webster (1610–1682)
• Title: The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft. Wherein is affirmed that there are many sorts of Deceivers and Imposters...
• Imprint: London, Printed by J.M. and to be sold by the Booksellers, 1677.
• Edition: First Edition, First Printing (True First Edition).
• Format: Small Folio / Large 4to (33 x 21.5 cm).
• Pagination: pp. [16], 349. Imprimatur leaf present preceding the title page ("July 29, 1676. Jonas Moore, Soc. Reg. Vice-Praeses").
• Language: English.

Binding & Condition Report

• Binding: Beautiful and solid 17th-century contemporary full stiff vellum. The front board features the original owner's initials "F. V." elegantly stamped in gold. The spine features geometric raised bands and is structurally perfect. Joints and hinges are firm and secure.
• Overall Condition: Very Good. Internal pages remain crisp, fresh, and tightly bound with wide margins. As expected for a book nearly 350 years old, there is some light, natural age-toning and occasional minor foxing, which does not detract from the beauty or rarity of the volume. A genuine, highly collectible copy.