The Black Arts

5W Richard Cavendish. London: Routledge and Kegan Paul. 1967. First edition First printing.

Notes

The Black Arts by Richard Cavendish, first published in 1967, is a comprehensive and accessible study of the history and practices of Western occultism. Blending scholarship with engaging narrative, Cavendish explores a wide array of esoteric traditions, including astrology, alchemy, demonology, numerology, and ritual magic. He delves into both the psychological appeal and historical development of these “black arts,” revealing how they have been practiced, feared, and misunderstood throughout the centuries. While not advocating occult practices, Cavendish treats his subject with seriousness and curiosity, offering readers a detailed and often chilling look at the darker side of magical belief. The book remains a classic introduction for anyone interested in the occult, mysticism, or the shadowy corners of cultural history.

Description

Original black cloth with gilt lettering to the spine. Original dust wrapper. Frontispiece illustration (after Eliphas Levi) of ‘The GOAT of the Witches’ Sabbath’, which is reproduced on the rear panel of the dust wrapper. Light spotting throughout. Mild spotting to dust wrapper. Reinforced tape to upper and lower edges of the spine wiht dome restoration to the upper tip. Very good condition.