The Stones of Venice; 2 Volume set, by John Ruskin, 1892

This elegant two-volume set presents Ruskin’s celebrated architectural travel guide, tailored for the practical use of visitors exploring Venice and Verona. Originally drawn from his landmark work The Stones of Venice, these volumes include selected introductory chapters alongside detailed indices to significant buildings, artworks, and features across both cities. Designed to be portable and accessible, this edition distills Ruskin’s critical observations and historical context for the benefit of 19th-century travellers—many of whom regarded him as a leading voice in art, morality, and aesthetics.

This fifth edition (1892), published by Ruskin’s long-standing publisher George Allen, maintains the refined typographic design and thoughtful layout for which Allen's late-Victorian editions are known. These two volumes were issued separately from the larger three-volume Stones of Venice, and serve as a kind of condensed, annotated field guide to Ruskin’s vision of Italian Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

The Stones of Venice; Introductory Chapters and Local Indices (printed separately) For The Use Of Travellers While Staying In Venice and Verona, by John Ruskin, LL.D. In Two volumes, complete.

Published by George Allen, Orpington, and London. Fifth Edition, 1892.

A handsome set in near fine condition - bound with dark green leather spine and corners. The spines now sunned to brown and with raised bands and gilt titles. The boards are covered with marbled paper with gilt metallic veins, which are mirrored on the endpapers inside. Previous owner's blind embossed stamp is discreetly located on a blank endpaper - 'Muckcairn, Taynuilt, Argyllshire' (Scotland). With mild wear and a little bumping to corners. All soundly bound. 

Text is bright and clean throughout. Occasional uncut edge, and one slightly uneven page edge in volume II. A most attractive set.

Text in English.

Vol I: vi + (1) + 302pp; 

Vol II: (iv) + 435pp. 

Weight approximately 1240g (the set - unpacked).

Approx Dimensions: 

Each volume approximately 187mm high x 134mm wide x 23-30mm deep.