A rare and extraordinary first edition of Niccolò Machiavelli’s The Prince is set to captivate collectors and scholars as it heads to auction at Sotheby’s in London. With an estimated sale price of up to £300,000 ($375,000), this iconic political treatise offers a glimpse into Renaissance-era political thought and Machiavelli’s enduring influence on modern political science. The auction will run from November 28 to December 12, marking a significant event in rare books.
The Discovery of a Hidden Treasure
According to Sotheby’s, this particular copy of The Prince is one of only 11 first editions known to exist. Gabriel Heaton, a specialist in Books & Manuscripts at Sotheby’s, emphasized the rarity of this find:
“We were not aware of any other copies in private hands, and this is the first copy that we are aware of to have come to auction, certainly in recent decades,” Heaton told CNN.
The book, bound in early-17th-century Italian binding alongside a second edition of Machiavelli’s Florentine Histories, presents a unique opportunity for collectors. Its journey through history, including its time in an Italian library and later ownership by an English collector, adds to its allure.
A Political Manual That Shaped History
Written in 1513 during Machiavelli’s exile, The Prince provides a pragmatic view of leadership, advising rulers to act according to necessity rather than idealism. Its groundbreaking philosophy, focusing on realpolitik over utopian ideals, cemented Machiavelli’s reputation as the founder of modern political science.
The book’s controversial stance led to its inclusion on the Catholic Church’s Index of Prohibited Books in 1559. The title page of this particular copy is missing, which Sotheby’s suggests may have been a deliberate act to avoid confiscation during its early circulation.
An Auction of Historical Significance
Sotheby’s is thrilled to present this historical masterpiece. “We are delighted and excited to offer this incredibly rare book,” said Heaton. The auction house notes that this edition serves as material evidence of The Prince’s illicit status in Renaissance Italy, reflecting the volatile political climate of its time.
Marginal notes in this copy highlight some of the text’s most striking passages, including chapter 18, which explores the manipulation of appearances in politics. Heaton remarked:
“Machiavelli gives a very clear-sighted view of the nature of political power, and especially the way that political power is exercised in times of turbulence and uncertainty.”
A Timeless Legacy
The Prince’s enduring relevance lies in its candid analysis of power and leadership, making it one of the most significant works in political theory. This auction offers a rare chance to own a piece of history that has shaped political discourse for centuries. Whether acquired by a collector or an institution, this first edition of The Prince promises to inspire continued reflection on Machiavelli’s timeless insights into the complexities of leadership and governance.
