1788211

1850s Complete 5-Volume Life of Samuel Johnson #1788211

Currency:USD Category:Books / Antiquarian & Collectible Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
1850s Complete 5-Volume Life of Samuel Johnson #1788211
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This copiously illustrated early Victorian edition appeared only 60 years after James Boswell?s masterpiece of biography was first published in 1791. Titled in full ?The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D. comprehending an account of his studies and numerous works in chronological order; a series of his epistolary correspondence and conversations,? the set is completed by ?Boswell's journal of a tour to the Hebrides with Samuel Johnson? as its fifth volume.



The volumes were issued at intervals during 1851 and 1852 by the Office of the National Illustrated Library, London (part of the Illustrated London News group). Volume I incorporates pages advertising the books that would follow, each to include 50 ? 100 engravings and be ?beautifully bound?.



The original binding of gray-blue cloth -- embossed with an elaborate rose and thistle motif, heraldic crests and the publisher?s name in swirling banners -- remains on our set (whereas many have been rebound) and all illustrations appear to be present. The spines have gilt decoration and titles and page tops are also gilded. Each book measures about 7.75 inches tall and 5.5 inches wide. Naturally there are condition issues with books more than 150 years old, but no pages are loose and readability isn?t at all impaired. The only problems inside are foxing in some spots, a prior owner's small bookplate (reading Edward Theobald) and, in Volume III, slight separation at the hinge in a couple of places. Volume III looks ...
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#: JOHNSONSET</td>
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<tr><td>Condition:Good, Relative to Age -- Original Bindings</td></tr>
<tr><td>Year:1851 and 1852</td></tr>
<tr><td>Country:England - London</td></tr>
<tr><td>Maker:James Boswell, Author; National Illustrated Library, London, Publisher</td></tr>




<tr><td>Title:1850s Complete 5-Volume Life of Samuel Johnson</td></tr>



<tr><td>Location:Albuquerque, NM</td></tr>
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