The comic almanac an ephemeris in jest and earnest, containing merry tales, humorous poetry, quips, and oddities, by Thackeray, Albert Smith, Gilbert A. Beckett, the Brothers Mayhew. With many hundred illustrations by George Cruikshank and other artists

London: Chatto and Windus, n.d.. Hundreds of engraved illustrations throughout including the folding transportation engraving "Probable Effects of Over Female Emigration" (which is the frontispiece to the second volume). Original publisher’s cloth, gilt title and design on covers and spines; bindings lightly rubbed, half-title to Volume 1 with straight cut along top edge about ¼ inch, frontispiece to Volume 2 nearly detached with browning down the edge, otherwise set in excellent condition, partially unopened. The Comic Almanacks of George Cruikshank have long been regarded by admirers of this inimitable artist as among his finest, most characteristic productions. Extending over a period of nineteen years, from 1835 to 1853, inclusive, they embrace the best period of his artistic career and show the varied excellences of his marvelous power.

“Cruikshank attained great celebrity as an artist of rare talents, both in humor and pathos” (Allibone, 456). “In 1835 Cruikshank issued the first number of the ‘Comic Almanack,’ with a dozen ‘right merrie’ cuts (etchings) ‘pertaining to the months’ by himself, and a few minor embellishments. Sometimes the letterpress was supplied by distinguished contributors” (DNB). This two-volume set is the complete run from 1835 to 1853.