The Arabian Nights ' Entertainments ~ G.S. Beaumont ~ 1808  1st Edition 4 Vols

Scarce 1808 edition, the 1st to be translated by G.S. Beaumont, in quarter calf bindings. Complete, 4 volumes bound into 2. Widely regarded at the time of its publication as the most authoritative translation. Copper engraved illustrations were by William Marshall Craig, water colourist to the Queen Charlotte. All 8 plates are present including the 4 frontispieces: 'The Merchant and the Geni', 'Barber,' 'Queen Lab's Transformation' and 'Avaricious Punished'. Bindings show some shelf wear, including rubbing and marks to marbled boards and some scuffing to the leather, but overall display well. Both bindings have no loose pages. Book blocks are firm overall although Volume I/II hinge has separated between the frontispiece and title page (see last photo). Vol III/IV front end paper is cracked but holding. Pages have some toning with occasional spotting and a few creases. A very impressive complete set of this scarce edition. Please see photos for condition. Weight: 1090g.