Benjamin FRANKLIN, George WASHINGTON, Samuel JOHNSON, Caspar LAVATER and others (subjects). - [Joseph TAYLOR, possible compilor].
An extensive manuscript and printed album, titled "Illustrations of Celebrated Characters". [England: circa 1830 -1840, watermarked date '1829'].
Quarto. Erratic page numbering with at least 590 pages, with entries for 51 different individuals, under 12 different headings, illustrated throughout with a total of about 248 engravings, wood-engravings, etc. including portraits (approx. 126), topographical and architectural views (approx. 94) and 48 other more general images. The explanatory text is a mixture of extracted printed material and 52 pages of manuscript in a single hand (possibly Joseph Taylor).
Later half morocco, gilt, top edges gilt (upper joint split and repaired).
An enthusiastic compilation, beautifully presented [see images]. Most of the 51 individuals appear under a series of headings, arranged alphabetically: Divines (8 subjects); Essayists (1); Free-thinkers (3); Historians (3); Kings & Queens (4); Musicians (2); Novelists (4); Painters (2); Philanthropists (3); Philosophers (4); Statesmen (8); Warriors (4). The work ends with a 'catchall' category containing 9 further names.
- Binding Condition: Acceptable
- Overall Condition: Acceptable
- Size: 10 x 8in; 254 x 200mm
- Sold By: Shadowrock Rare Books
- Contact Person: Adam Langlands
- Country: United States
- Email: [email protected]
- Telephone: 001-860-248-1547
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