first edition Full Morocco
1796 · London
by Woodward, George Moutard
London: Allen & West, 1796. First Edition. Full Morocco. Very Good. 4to. 25.5 by 20 cm. 217, [1] pp. Illustrated with engraved title and 100 humorous hand-colored plates (on 99 leaves), 3 of which are folding, by Isaac Cruikshank, a contemporary of Rowlandson and father of George and Robert Cruikshank. Caricatures and early cartoons here could be sharp, acerbic or gentle. Many glow with whimsy, and all should bring a smile to virtually anyone. Full blue morocco, Riviere & Son binding. With elaborate dentelles and spine decoration. Gilt edges. Rubbed spots on joints, and the slightest fatigue to leather on the spine. One minor closed tear within. Age toning to leaves, which are otherwise clean. A comic masterpiece in a rare true first edition.
(Inventory #: 004085)