444

Antonio, Prior of Crato (1531-1595)

The Explanation of the True and Lavvfull Right and Tytle

Leiden [London?]: Plantin [Purfoot?], 1585.
Quarto, lacking the folding genealogical chart and initial blank; bound in later sheepskin with ornate blind stamping; contents dusty, trimmed slightly unevenly; ex library with withdrawal stamp on inside front pastedown (no other library stamps in the text); 6 7/8 x 5 in.


STC 689; Voet, L. Plantin Press, 66; ESTC S100205.

In the 1580s, Antonio claimed he was heir to the throne of Portugal, as an illegitimate son of Prince Luis, Duke of Beja (1506-1555) and Violante Gomes. Catherine de'Medici and Elizabeth I of England both supported his claim, even though they were ostensibly using him in order to provoke the ousting of Philip II. Antonio was able to carry off the crown jewels of Portugal, but was unsuccessful in his bid for the crown. He sold off his store of diamonds, fathered at least 9 sons by 3 women (none of whom he married), and died in obscurity in 1595.

This rare vestige of Elizabethan political maneuvering seldom comes to auction. ESTC lists 5 copies in American libraries.

  • Condition: [-]1, A-G4.

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