[Signed] The English Dance Of Death William Coombe, Thomas Rowlandson [Near Fine] [Hardcover]

Offered here is a stunning two-volume first edition set of ""The English Dance of Death,"" published in London in 1815. This work is a premier highlight of British Regency-era publishing, featuring the iconic satirical designs of Thomas Rowlandson accompanied by metrical illustrations (verse) by William Coombe (writing as the author of ""Doctor Syntax""). This set is ""Signed"" by the world-renowned binder Bayntun of Bath. It is exquisitely bound in full crushed brown morocco leather. The covers feature unique, thematic gilt-tooling with skulls and crossbones at the corners and spines, perfectly echoing the macabre subject matter of the plates. Volumes: 2 Volumes (Complete). Plates: 72 magnificent full-page hand-colored plates, plus 2 frontispieces and a title vignette. Size: Octavo (9.5""x 6""). Edges: All Edges Gilt (aeg). Pagination: Vol I: 295pp; Vol II: 299pp. Exterior: The bindings are in beautiful, excellent condition with vibrant gilt-work. The joints and hinges are firm and secure. Interior: The contents remain bright with only minor, age-appropriate foxing / soiling. Overall a fantastic, clean, and crisp set. Fine Leather Bindings by Bayntun