Dramatic Miscellanies - Consisting of Critical Observations on Several Plays of Shakespeare with a Review of His Principal Characters, and Ttose of Eminent Writers, as Represented by Mr. Garrick, and Other Celebrated Comedians. (Fine Binding)
London: Printed for the Author, 1783. 1st Edition. Full-Leather. Near Fine. Item #019055
Three volumes. 8vo., xxiv(1)451(1)pp; (3)425pp.; (3)508pp. Sharp Presumed First Edition of this series of essays and annotations to the works of Shakespeare with detailed descriptions of various passages and characters from amongst his major works. Volume 1 and 3 are dated 1884 while Volume 2 is date 1783 but it appears all sets are as such. Bound in contemporary full brown calf. Five raised bands blocked in gilt with lettering in gilt upon a maroon leather label in the second compartment. Volume numbers in gilt in third. Frontis illustration of Thomas Betterton, a prominent Shakespearian actor and theater manager during Restoration England. Half-titles present in Volumes 3 and 4. All volumes are square, tight and generally clean throughout.There is some light staining to several preliminary pages in Vol. 2. The first few pages of Vol. 1 has some silverfish damage to lower edge but not affecting text. Paper is pretty much devoid of foxing and toning and quite surprisingly supple given its age. Hinges are strong. Some moderate surface wear and scuffing. , particularly to the bottom outer corners. Really very readable and well-preserved. Funnily, it appears that the volume number on the first book was mis-truck as a J instead of a 1 when bound. Bookplate on the front paste-down of each volume of Sir Edward B. Baker, 2nd Baronet of Ranston, Dorset (1806-1877). A very handsome, collectable set at a great price.
Price: $395.00