Ancient Faiths Embodied in Ancient Names ( Two Volumes ); Or an attempt to trace the Religious Belief, Sacred Rites, and Holy Emblems of Certain Nations by an Interpretation of the names given to children by Priestly Authority, or assumed by Prophets, Kings, and Hierarchs
London: Privately Printed, 1868, 1869. First Editions. Hardcover. Two volumes. Thick octavos. xliv + 792 pp & xvi + 1028 pp. Gilt decorated brown cloth, gilt titling to spines, elaborate blind stamping, beveled edges, etc. to spines, b&w illustrations, extensive indexes. A massive set by Thomas Inman (1820-1876), British doctor and mythologist who also wrote "Ancient Pagan and Modern Christian Symbolism" and several other works. Inman was strongly influenced by the work of Godfrey Higgins, in particular his theories on the phallic elements of religion, and an interest in phallicism pervades his works, including this detailed exploration of the sacred origins of names in ancient societies, particularly the semitic and other cultures with roots in the near-East, and how they have been passed along over the milennia. Inman's work was known to most late nineteenth and early-mid twentieth century writers with an interest in occult and religious symbolism, particularly that of the phallus, and there is no doubt that he was read by Aleister Crowley and Kenneth Grant, with the latter referencing his work in "Outer Gateways." Heavy volumes well rubbed, bumped and chafed at all edges. Some light fraying etc at corners and spine ends. Hinges tender but quite sound. Frontis plate in Vol. II has large vertical discolored strip along inside margin, otherwise internally both volumes unmarked. A well used but solid and serviceable G+ set. Scarce. A large heavy book that will require some additional shipping in addition to the amount automatically listed. The exact amount extra will depend on the destination and the method used - we will calculate options and contact you once you've placed your order, or you can enquire beforehand. Item #32769
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