Libellous Trials : The 1663 Trials of John Twyn, Thomas Brewster, Simon Dover & Nathan Brooks for Treason & Misdemeanours in Printing. Printed in 1776.

Twyn is tried for high treason for printing a seditious book, while Brewster, Dover, and Brooks face related misdemeanour charges. The proceedings highlight the Restoration governments determination to control the press and punish those who circulated radical or republican ideas in the uneasy years after Charles IIs return. 12 PAGES, printed in double columns. A genuine 1776 printing taken from the authoritative Complete Collection of State Trials. Originally compiled to serve both as a legal reference and a vehicle of political discourse, the State Trials series shaped contemporary and subsequent understanding of justice, authority, and dissent. The generously sized sheets on which these trials are printed offer particular pleasure to the eye and hand, bearing clear signs of their handmade origin: chain lines and wire impressions from the mould are readily visible, some pages display watermarks, and the paper varies subtly in thickness, all characteristic of 18th century rag paper. This particular trial report has been preserved in a modern card cover, prepared for practicality - an unassuming but serviceable presentation that favours function over finery. Size: 30 x 47 cms. Category: State Trials; Printed before 1800; State Trials::Large Folio. This item may require more postage than the rates shown for delivery outside the UK. If extra postage is required we will contact you before processing your order and you will be given the details and option to decline the extra cost. Cosmo Books : 29 years on ABE, 47 years taking care of customers. A bookseller you can rely on.