This lovely half leather book is the sixth edition of this popular guide for moral instruction. Blossoms of Morality for the Instruction and Amusement of Young Ladies and Gentlemen features the striking illustrations of Thomas Bewick. It was published in 1814 by J Harris, Scatcherd and Letterman so the book is from the Georgian era. It is bound in half Morocco leather over dark green cloth. The spine features five raised bands and gilt lettering.
Blossoms of Morality was an early 19th-century anthology of stories and fables, aimed at providing both instruction and entertainment for young readers - covering topics such as virtue, integrity and social duty.
It's in good condition but does show light wear and loss to the surface of the leather at the corners and along the spine edges. There are a couple of small bumps to the back board and light marks to the front. The spine is lightly sunned and there is a small split starting to the bottom of the front hinge.
Inside, the endpapers are beautifully marbled; there is a name and address written in pen to the verso of the FFEP and a written inscription on the title page. The pages show light age toning and occasional marking/foxing. The edge of page 143 sticks out slightly from the edge of the text block but it is securely attached and tight to the binding. It just doesn't look like it was cut properly.
The delightful illustrations by Thomas Bewick bring this piece of social history to life.
Dimensions approximately 16.5cm x 11.3cm x 2.3cm.
The books will arrive securely wrapped in bubble wrap, 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).