Northcotes Original Fables 1833 Second Series Appraisal

Northcote's Original Fables (1833 Second Series)

This is an antique leather-bound volume titled 'One Hundred Fables, Original and Selected' (specifically the Second Series) by James Northcote, R.A. The book is presented in a classic octavo format with off-white or cream-toned paper characteristic of the mid-19th century. The title page features a red and black printed monogram and indicates it is 'Embellished with Eighty-Five Original Designs' engraved by various artists including Thompson and Williams. Opposite the title page is a finely detailed wood-engraved frontispiece illustration depicting a pastoral or allegorical scene typical of the Romantic era. The craftsmanship is evident in the intricate line work of the engravings and the formal typography, which includes varied fonts such as blackletter and serif styles. In terms of condition, there is several visible issues: the spine is heavily worn with significant material loss and fraying, suggesting the binding is fragile or detached. The pages show moderate foxing, yellowing, and edge wear consistent with a 19th-century manufacture date (1833). There are visible stitch marks along the gutter, indicating the block is loosening. This volume was printed in London by G. and J. Rivington, a prominent publishing firm of the period, making it a notable example of Georgian/early Victorian pedagogical literature.