Roman Antiquities: or, An Account of the Manners and Customs of the Romans

Edinburgh & London: A Strahan, T Cadell, & W Creech, 1792. 2nd Edition . Half Leather. Good. Second edition, considerably enlarged. Hardback, rebound in half marbled calf and contrasting leather title label to spine. 22 × 14cm, xv, errata, 616pp (page 616 is misnumbered 608). Scottish academic Alexander Adam's description of the life and habits of the ancient Romans was first published in 1791. It was immediately a popular title and received the unusual compliment of a German translation. This is the much enlarged second edition of the following year, the scope of which is best described by the full title: Roman antiquities: or, an account of the manners and customs of the Romans; Respecting their Government, Magistracy, Laws, Judicial Proceedings, Religion, Games, Military and Naval Affairs, Dress, Exercises, Baths, Marriages, Divorces, Funerals, Weights and Measures, Coins, Method of Writing, Houses, Gardens, Agriculture, Carriages, Public Buildings, &c. &c. Designed chiefly to illustrate the Latin classics, by Explaining words and Phrases, from the Rites and Customs to which they Refer. Condition: This copy is good plus for age. The book is in strong readable condition with clean pages and secure inner binding. The rebinding is proficient but not professional, with the turn-ins covering the original pastedown. The marbled calf is in good order, the cloth boards a bit scuffed and worn. Hinges exposed but with no movement and remaining secure.