Beautiful 1835 complete 10-volume set of James Boswell’s Life of Samuel Johnson, published by John Murray, London. Finely bound by Zaehnsdorf in full polished calf, with gilt tooling, raised bands, and marbled boards and endpapers.
Each volume features gilt floral spine compartments, twin leather title and volume labels, and marbled edges. Illustrated with engraved plates drawn by C. Stanfield, R.A., and engraved by E. Finden. Provenance inscription of Edward Roberts (Killotteran, 1839) on endpaper of one volume.
The Zaehnsdorf bindery, among the most distinguished of 19th-century London craftsmen, is known for its impeccable quality and artistry. The “Bound by Zaehnsdorf” stamp appears discreetly at the lower inner edge of the front board.
Condition: Very good overall. Light rubbing to joints and corners, occasional scattered foxing to plates, bindings tight and supple. A striking and finely preserved set with excellent shelf appeal.
Publisher: John Murray, London, 1835
Binder: Zaehnsdorf, London (stamped)
Volumes: Complete, 10 volumes
Language: English
Illustrations: Engravings by Finden after drawings by Stanfield, R.A.
Binding: Full calf with gilt tooling and marbled endpapers
Provenance: Edward Roberts (Killotteran, 1839)
A truly elegant Zaehnsdorf-bound Murray edition of Boswell’s classic biography — a highlight for any 19th-century literature or fine binding collection.
