Elevate your collection with this exquisite two-volume first edition set of The Life of Oliver Goldsmith by James Prior, published in 1837 by the prestigious John Murray of London. This attractive and historically rich set is bound in three-quarter leather over cloth by the esteemed Bayntun of Bath, England, a name synonymous with fine bookbinding.
✨ Notable Features:
Frontispiece Engraving: Goldsmith's Monument in Westminster Abbey (Vol. I)
Facsimile of Goldsmith’s Handwriting: Facing title page (Vol. II)
Classic Bayntun Binding: Three-quarter leather over cloth boards with hand-decorated endpapers
Elegant Spine Design: Five raised bands, gilt-stamped title, and top edge gilt
Provenance: Original bookplates designed by award-winning etcher Walter M. Aikman for previous owner John Kepke
📏 Dimensions & Pagination:
8vo format Vol. I: 515pp Vol. II: 586pp (9” x 5.5”)
📖 Condition: Expected shelf wear with rubbing to leather on spine and corner tips. Some sunning on the spine leather and small scrapes to rear cover of Vol. II. Preliminary blank page of Vol. I has small chips, but all pages remain intact and highly presentable.
🔹 A Distinguished Collector’s Item! This first edition set offers historical significance, beautiful craftsmanship, and a touch of literary elegance. A remarkable addition to any fine library or Goldsmith enthusiast’s collection!