This beautiful Victorian edition of Gems of Literature Elegant, Rare and Suggestive was published by William P Nimmo. The book is undated but I'd estimate it to be mid Victorian (circa 1870-1880).
The book is bound in burgundy cloth with striking blind stamped decoration and gilt to the front board and spine. The text block edges are gilt and the boards are bevelled.
It's in good condition for it's age but there are condition points to be aware of. The boards have some damp damage which has bleached some of the colour from the cloth. The corners are worn and there is shelf wear to the board edges. There is some marking and discolouration to the back board, and the spine is faded. Crushing to the spine ends has caused some minor splitting in the cloth.
Inside, the front free endpaper has been removed so the book opens onto the half title page. The pages are lightly age toned with occasional foxing/marking but are remarkably clear and bright. There are some cracks to the gutter in places but the pages remain tightly bound.
There are stunning black and white illustrations throughout which add to the charm of this Victorian book. It features a collection of well known poets and authors including Shakespeare, John Milton and Edgar Allan Poe.
Dimensions approximately 21.5cm x 17.5cm x 3cm.
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).