Samuel Johnson Lives of English Poets 1819 Philadelphia nice 3 vol. leather set

[Biographies, Biographical Sketches, English Poets, American Publications]

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The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets; with Observations on their Works, by Dr. Samuel Johnson.
Published 1819, Philadelphia by Benjamin C. Buzby.
3 volumes, each c. 400 pages.

Period full mottled calf American leather bindings, smooth spines gilt ruled and lettered, contrasting red morocco title labels. Bindings remain tight and sound.

Old damp staining to some text block portions, moderate scattered age staining and spotting throughout. Various signs of time, age and useage to the set, yet retaining an overall pleasing age patina and appearance.

Nice set to examine, early hand-written name and small local public library letterpress bookplates printed on green paper, small signs of previous institutional ownership including small early oval paper shelf id labels to spine bases.

Set is a one-of-a-kind survival, the various small age flaws adding patina and appeal to the unique set.

Books measure: 7 3/8" H X 4 1/2" W.
Set along the shelf measures: 4".

[V1955].