Publius Terentius Afer

Art Historical Context

This exquisite pocket-sized volume, *Publius Terentiusfer*, is a 1823 edition of the complete comedies by the ancient Roman playwright Terence (c. 185–159 BCE), known for his elegant adaptations of Greek plays into sophisticated Latin drama. Published by the renowned William Pickering as part of his celebrated "Diamond Classics" series it features contributions from printer Robert Graves and binder Charles Corrall. Measuring just 3 9/16 inches, with 220 pages and a delicate frontispiece portrait, exemplifies early 19th-century fine printing—compact yet beautifully crafted for scholars and collectors to carry Terence's witty explorations of human folly everywhere. Terence's works, blending humor, social commentary, and moral insight, profoundly influenced Renaissance literature and neoclassical theater, from Shakespeare to Molière. Pickering's edition reflects the Romantic era's revival of classical antiquity, using tiny "diamond" type (hence the series name) for portability without sacrificing legibility or aesthetic appeal. The frontispiece portrait adds a personal touch, inviting readers to connect with Terence, the former slave who rose to literary fame in ancient Rome. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Libraries Department through the 2019 bequest of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, this rarity highlights the intersection of literature, book arts, and cultural heritage—bridging antiquity and the Regency age in a single, gem-like object.

About the Artist

Terence (Publius Terentius Afer)|William Pickering|Robert Graves|Charles Corrall (Roman|British|British| ) · -0190 |1796 |1798 | –-0159 |1854 |1873 |

Roman, 190 BCE?–159 BCE|British, 1796–1854|British, London 1798–1873 London|