Minstrel & Other Poems 1821 James Beattie fine decorative patterned leather book

(Old Books, 19th Century Books, Leather Books, Decorative Book Bindings, Poetry).

The Minstrel; or, The Progress of Genius and Other Poems, by James Beattie.
Published 1821, New York by R. & W.A. Bartow.
216 pages. Text in English. Engraved frontis portrait. Early gift inscription, likely as a Reward of merit to a student.

Period full leather binding, smooth spine, gilt bands & title lettering, embossed & gilt ruled covers with a lovely intricate weave pattern in the center, marbled edges and end paper, turn-ins gilt decorateds.

A beautiful early 19th century American binding, in a very pleasing state of preservation, much nicer than typical for leather books of this era.

Item is physically old and shows some signs of handling and time. Item is not new or in "new" condition.

Binding gently lightly age worn, but gilt is bright, leather is supple, designs well preserved and not worn, minor light surface scuffing to rear cover,  remains overall close to splendid as a 200 year old object.

Text block paper is toned, internally well preserved, scattered foxing and small age spotting, any flaws of a minor type unworthy of specific mention.

Still attractive on the shelf. Item displays a pleasing and unique age patina and is in nice antiquarian condition, any age flaws easy to overlook or forgive. 

Please review photos for more detail and our best attempt to convey how this antique item survives.

Book Measures c. 5 3/4" H x 3 1/2" W.

[B2098].