Lot 447: BOYDELL, John (1720-1804) and Josiah BOYDELL (1752-1817). An History of the River Thames.

BOYDELL, John (1720-1804) and Josiah BOYDELL (1752-1817). An History of the River Thames. London: W. Bulmer, 1794-96. 2 volumes, 2° (417 x 315mm). Additional printed titles, engraved frontispiece and folding map, 76 hand-coloured aquatints by J.C. Stadler after J. Farington (ownership marks excised from title pages, light off-setting of text onto plates, spotting to some text leaves, ink cancels on titles). Contemporary diced calf gilt, spines gilt in compartments (somewhat worn, joints split). Provenance: ex-library copy (labels removed from front pastedown) -- F. Edwards (signature on front pastedown of vol. I).

FIRST EDITION, FIRST ISSUE of this popular work originally intended to include the rivers Thames, Severn, Forth and Clyde 'and intended to illustrate an original History of those Rivers, including all that adorns, dignifies or enriches them and their Vicinities, whether of Art or Nature'. The project was abandoned at the completion of the History of the Thames, although the publishers intended to continue with the Forth, as shown by the general title in each volume. These titles, as well as the Dedication to the King, were subsequently removed from later impressions. Abbey Scenery 432; Tooley 102. (2)

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