The Reminiscences and Recollections of Captain Gronow, 1889, Two Volume numbered limited edition set

Captain Gronow’s lively recollections of Regency and early Victorian society remain one of the most engaging first-hand accounts of life in the camp, court and clubs of early nineteenth century Britain. Covering the period from 1810 to 1860, the work brings together anecdote, observation and social commentary, with vivid portraits of figures from Wellington and Napoleon to the fashionable circles of London. This finely produced late Victorian edition, illustrated with etchings and aquatints after contemporary sources, reflects the enduring popularity of Gronow’s memoirs and their value as a window into the manners and personalities of the age.

The Reminiscences and Recollections of Captain Gronow, Being Anecdotes of the Camp, Court, Clubs, and Society 1810-1860. With Portrait, four Woodcuts, and Twenty Etched and Aquatint Illustrations from Contemporary Sources by Joseph Grego. In Two Volumes.

Published by John C. Nimmo, London, 1889 first edition. A limited edition set, one of 870 copies issued for England and America, this being No. 770 (volumes with matching numbers). With the full complement of illustrations in duplicate, including proofs before letters on plain paper and a further set on Whitman paper with titles and hand colouring.

A near fine set in an attractive later armorial binding. Tan calf leather spine with gilt ruled decoration and two green morocco title labels. Marbled boards with a large gilt armorial crest to the centre of the front covers. The crest and inscription identify the volumes as from the library of Lord Suffield, almost certainly Edward Harbord, 5th Baron Suffield of Gunton Park, Norfolk. A contemporary presentation inscription to the title page, to Lord Suffield from ? (handwriting indistinct - Geoffrey Payne?).

Binding is sound and well preserved. Some light rubbing and minor wear. Internally, the text is clean and bright throughout with only mild age toning, including some edge toning to the uncut vertical edges. A couple of marginal paper repairs near the beginning of Volume I. Pencil inscription at the end of Volume II (removable).

Plates are very attractive - presented in pairs - first the black and white 'proof', followed by the full colour version with titles. Offsetting to tissue guards.

A very handsome set.

Text in English.

Collation:
Vol I: xxviii + 351pp; and; 
Vol II: xii + 343pp. 

With portrait, woodcuts and twenty five plates in duplicate (including 'proofs before letters' and hand coloured plates), all present as issued.

Dimensions: approx 275mm high x 190mm wide x 57mm deep.
Weight: approx 3.33kg (the set - unpacked)