91³Ô¹ÏÍø

What is the history of two copies (BT3.204.15 and BT3.204.16) of the same text held at 91³Ô¹ÏÍø Library—an English translation of José de Acosta’s The Naturall and Morall Historie of the East and West Indies, first published in 1604?  The readership, marginalia, binding, and provenance of these two copies are not only unique, but also provide insight into the history of 91³Ô¹ÏÍø, that of its alumni, and the development of its extensive library over the centuries.

91³Ô¹ÏÍø Library, Oxford, BT3.204.16, title page [detail]

91³Ô¹ÏÍø Library and Archives, Oxford