LASSO DE LA VEGA, Gabriel (1558-1615). Primera parte de Cortes valeroso, y Mexicana. Madrid: Pedro Madrigal, 1588.

LASSO DE LA VEGA, Gabriel (1558-1615). Primera parte de Cortes valeroso, y Mexicana. Madrid: Pedro Madrigal, 1588.

The very rare first edition of one of the finest poems in the “Cortés cycle.” Written on the commission of Martin Cortés, son of Hernán, Cortes valeroso recounts the conquistador’s arrival in Cozumel and his conflict and battles with Moctezuma II in twelve cantos. An apologia for the controversial conqueror, Lasso de la Vega’s poem also includes long lists of individual soldiers and their deeds—securing their future glory for posterity. The narrative interludes, influenced as much by historical sources as by ancient exemplars like Virgil and Ovid, also reveal the strong impact of the works of Cervantes in their romantic, picaresque portrayals of events. No copy has appeared at auction in over 50 years. Alden 588/55; JCB 377; Palau 132.558; Sabin 39139.

Quarto (197 x 135mm). Woodcut portraits of Cortés and Lasso de la Vega, each with coat of arms beneath; woodcut illustration of ship with ornamental borders; woodcut initials (marginal restoration to first and last leaves; toned). 19th-century French red morocco gilt by Lortic fils, edges gilt.