Doctor Syntax Tours 3 vols Leather 1828 Ackermann w/ 79 aquatint Rowlandson plates

Doctor Syntax's Tours-
In Search of the Picturesque
In search of Consulation
In search of a Wife

(3 volumes- complete as issued).

Issued 1828, London by R. Ackermann.

illustrated by the famous English caricaturist Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827).

vol.1: pp. 276; 31 aquatint plates.

vol.2: pp. 277; 24 aquatint plates.

vol.3: pp. 279; 24 aquatint plates.

Total of 79 beautiful hand colored plates (all with tissue guards) by Rowlandson, published in the year after his death, the plates likely printed in advance of 1828 publication and thus perhaps in the last year he was still alive.

Each in period full polished calf leather binding, signed by Arthur & Golley, bookbindings. Spines ornately & intricately gilt decorated, raised bands, contrasting morocco gilt title labels, boards outlined in gilt rule w/ floral corner devices, top edge gilt, ornate gilt inner dentelles (see pic), marbled endpapers, profusion of hand colored aquatint plates throughout each volume.

Further condition details : Leather gilt lightly rubbed or age worn as seen, some scuffing and surface cracking along the joints, date compartments a bit rubbed- nothing offensive or severe, boards all still firm & tight, gilt overall bright. Leather remains supple, boards clean, a set which has obviously been well taken care of for over the past almost 200 years.

Textblocks all clean, fresh & tight. The plates are splendid, visual eye candy. The color is rich and bright, like miniature jewels of book art.

We've done our best to photograph the books so you can accurately see the condition and we've tried our very best to mention any flaws or issues.

Each volume measures c. 6" x 4" x 3" on the shelf.

Delightful small format, close to miniature, hand-held pocket sized.