The Lay of The Last Minstrel

Edinburgh: Adam and Charles Black, 1854. Leather. Near Fine. 8.5" by 5.5". John Gilbert, Birket Foster. A beautifully bound and illustrated copy of Sir Walter Scott's famous poem The Lay of The Last Minstrel. A long narrative and historical poem, The Lay of The Last Minstrel was originally published in 1805 and follows an ageing minstrel who seeks hospitality at Newark Castle. In recompense for shelter he tells a tale of a sixteenth century Border feud. Illustrated throughout, with numerous engravings from drawings by John Gilbert and Birket Foster. In a signed morocco binding by J Wright. The Lay is written in six cantos, and is a verse romance in the gothic style. Scott's intention was to depict the ancient customs and manners of the borders of England and Scotland as well as the inhabitants' pastoral and partly war-like living state. In a full morocco binding with ornate gilt stamping to the boards and spine. Signed binding by J Wright, stamp to front pastedown. Externally, very smart with just some rubbing to the joints and extremities. Gift inscription to recto of front endpaper, Mrs Pouter From Henry McRiver In Remembrance of Christmas 1857. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright with scattered spots throughout. Near Fine