PROSE MASTERPIECES

Handsomely bound collection of "modern" essays, illustrated with portraits of each author "in permanent photography." A late Victorian production meant for a casual literary audience, anthologizing some of the most respected critics of the era: Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Compensation" (first his first book of ESSAYS), De Quincey's "Conversation," Washington Irving's "The Mutability of Literature," Thomas Carlyle's "On History," and more. What distinguishes it from many others of its kind in this era is the inclusion of photographic portraits of each contributor (including photographs of paintings or drawings for those whose photos were never taken). This particular copy further boasts a beautifully finished full morocco binding by Bickers & Son. A stunning representative of the era. 8.25'' x 5.25''. Contemporary full navy crushed morocco by Bickers & Son, triple-gilt rules and elaborate floral border, raised bands, gilt-stamped spine. Gilt edges, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt. Illustrated with 12 photographic portraits of contributors. With half title. [10], 395, [1] pages. Ink owner name dated 1897. Only a few traces of rubbing. …