The Poetical Works of Thomson, Goldsmith, and Gray | Published London & Edinburgh; T. Nelson and Sons, 1855

A fine mid-19th century collection of poetry by James Thomson, Oliver Goldsmith, and Thomas Gray, beautifully bound in full red leather with an elaborate gilt border and a large embossed urn centerpiece to both boards. The spine is richly gilt in compartments with raised bands, the edges are all gilt, and the inner dentelles feature gilt floral decoration. The volume includes an engraved frontispiece portrait with tissue guard, additional plates, and vignettes throughout. Binding tight with bright gilt. Some mild tide marks present, with no impact on text or turning of pages. 526pp. The book carries a charming 1859 gift inscription, “The gift of a friend” to Miss C. Evans, adding a layer of provenance and personal history. Notable for its elegant presentation and enduring literary content, this volume exemplifies the fine craftsmanship of Nelson & Sons bindings. Published London & Edinburgh. James Thomson (1700–1748) is best remembered for The Seasons and Rule, Britannia!, works that shaped the British poetic imagination of nature and nation. Oliver Goldsmith (1728–1774), the Anglo-Irish author of The Vicar of Wakefield and The Deserted Village, combined wit and sentiment with social critique. Thomas Gray (1716–1771), a classical scholar and poet, achieved immortality with Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard, one of the most quoted poems in the English language. Together, these poets capture the grace, melancholy, and lyric power of 18th-century verse. Rare Book Condition: Very Good.  Size: 3” x 6 1/2” A richly bound and illustrated collection of three great poets of the 18th century, this volume would make a distinguished addition to any fine library or collection of poetry.