NICHOLS, John Gough. 3229

£175

Description

Autographs of Royal, Noble, Learned, and Remarkable Personages conspicuous in English History, from the reign of Richard the Second to that of Charles the Second; with Some Illustrious Foreigners; containing many passages from important letters. Engraved under the direction of Charles John Smith. Accompanied by concise biographical memoirs, and interesting extracts from the original documents. Folio (approx. 14 x 11 inches). xiv [126], iv. 55 engraved plates, each showing a number of superb facsimile signatures and letters, with biographical details. Original green cloth (some wear), new leather title label, occasional very light foxing stains but overall a good copy. London, 1829. One of the earliest major reference books on royal and historical autographs, and still useful today, particularly in the identification of the less well known courtiers, literary figures and statesmen at the Tudor and Stuart courts. This was the first separate publication by John Gough Nichols (1806-73), printer and antiquary. and editor of the Gentleman’s Magazine.