Notes
|
Unusual to find these cloth over waxed paper dustjackets from the late 19th century. In this case, they have done their job well--the books are in excellent condition. This is a 2 volume set, not dated but circa late 1880s (Volume I contains the 20th Edition Preface, dated 1882, but this set may just be printed from the 1882 plates). Very beautiful dark red cloth bindings with elaborate art nouveau type gilt decorations on the spine and front binding panel, & also binding printing, ribbon place markers (which are somewhat faded), and gilt upper page edges. Dark red cloth over waxed paper dustjackets for both volumes, undecorated except for gilt printing on the spines. Numerous B&W full page illustrations with tissue guards intact, some by Dr. Charles L. Mitchell, some by F. Frith & Co. of England, and photogravures by A. W. Elson & Co. The books are both near fine (previous owner's inscription in Volume I and name in Volume II), just a bit of lower binding shelfwear, but clean, straight, tight and with all gilt intact), in very good plus dustjackets (a few smudges and a touch of edge wear & fraying, flap corners clipped. Really a lovely set.; Vol. 2 vol |