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THE LIVES OF THE MOST EMINENT BRITISH PAINTERS, SCULPTORS, AND ARCHITECTS.
(London: John Murray, 1829-33). 154 x 102 mm. (6 x 4"). Six volumes. FIRST EDITION.
Attractive dark green smooth half calf over forest green cloth boards, raised bands, compartments with single snowflake-like tool, gilt lettering, top edges gilt. With 42 plates of British artists. A few corners a bit worn, light foxing to many of the plates, other trivial imperfections, but in excellent condition overall, with the bindings especially clean and lustrous and showing few signs of use.
This is an appealing little set of biographies of important British artists, including names such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, Thomas Gainsborough, William Blake, Benjamin West, Christopher Wren, Richard Cosway, and, sculptor Anne Damer, the only woman included here. According to DNB, the work, which "is more simply written than [the author's] usual prolix style, . . . had a large sale. His personal knowledge of contemporary artists added to its value." Scottish-born Allan Cunningham (1784-1842) was a poet, songwriter, and journalist. He also worked as secretary for the sculptor Francis Leggatt Chantrey from 1814 until the artist's death in 1841, during which time he gained invaluable knowledge of the British artistic community. In addition to its art historical interest, this set also makes a pleasing appearance on the shelf. (ST19567-133)
Price: $450.00