Nineteenth Century Book Arts Walter Scott Poetical Works 1852 Decorative Binding and Concealed Fore Edge Painting

Walter Scott

Book

Scott, Walter. The Poetical Works, 1852 collected edition presenting the poetry of one of the central figures of nineteenth century British literature, whose work shaped historical romance, national identity, and literary culture in Britain and the United States. Scott’s poetry, widely read throughout the nineteenth century, contributed to transatlantic literary exchange and remained a staple of education and private libraries. This volume reflects the continued circulation and reception of his work within Victorian reading culture, where literary texts were often issued in decorative formats intended for display and gifting.

Scott, Walter. The Poetical Works. London: John Kendrick, 1852. Compact volume bound in red morocco with gilt edges, featuring a concealed fore edge painting revealed when the pages are fanned, depicting Yale College from New Haven Green. This form of decoration, in which an image is applied to the fanned edges and remains hidden when closed, exemplifies nineteenth century bookbinding craftsmanship and the integration of visual art into literary objects. The text gathers Scott’s poetic output into a single edition intended for both reading and presentation.

Produced within the Victorian tradition of elaborately bound gift books, this volume situates Scott’s poetry within a culture that valued both literary content and decorative artistry. The inclusion of a fore edge painting of Yale College underscores the transatlantic reception of Scott’s work and its association with American educational institutions and readers. Contemporary ownership signature dated November 4, 1862 on the front free endpaper. Light wear with minor joint separation; overall very good. A well preserved example of nineteenth century literary publishing enhanced by decorative book arts.

Item #17261

Price: $750.00