A transfer device comprises a freely rotatable transferring member (56) contacting an image bearing member (51) to form a transfer nip therebetween; a transfer bias applying member (200) to apply a first bias (202) created by superimposing an alternating current component on a direct current component to the transferring member (56) to transfer a toner image borne on the image bearing member (51) to a recording medium (P) in the transfer nip; and an applicator (5) to apply protective agent (62) to a surface of the transferring member (56).