This stunning antique hardback edition of The Poetical Works of Mrs Hemans was published by Ward Lock and Co Ltd. This particular edition isn't dated but I've seen other books in this same binding with inscriptions, and they usually date between 1880 and 1890. So the book is from the mid to late Victorian period.
The book is bound in brown cloth over bevelled boards with blind stamped decoration in black and gilt to the front board and spine. All edges gilt.
It's in near fine condition, with only light wear to the corners and crushing to the spine ends. The board edges show light rubbing and bumping. There is minor chipping to the surface colour of the cloth in places.
Inside, there is a handwritten letter tucked loosely inside - the book was a gift to a woman on the occasion of her wedding. The hinges are cracking very slightly but the pages are tight to the binding. The pages show age toning throughout with sporadic foxing (most pronounced to the preliminary pages).
The book features beautiful black and white illustration plates throughout.
Dimensions approximately 19cm x 13.5cm x 4cm.
The book will arrive hand wrapped in patterned wallpaper and string.
I use a range of eco friendly, 100% recyclable jiffy bags and boxes, and whenever possible I use brown paper tape. The green bubble wrap is biodegradable and the clear bubble wrap is 100% recyclable. I also reuse boxes when I feel it's appropriate (if the boxes are sturdy enough).