The History of Initiation, in Twelve Lectures; Comprising a Detailed Account of the Rites and Ceremonies, Doctrines and Discipline, of all the Secret and Mysterious Institutions of the Ancient World. ~ Rev. George Oliver ~ 1841 Edition ~ Richard Spencer, 314 High Holborn, London. Quarter-leather binding, with marbled boards, marbled edges, marbled endpapers and featuring the decorative bookplate of the Supreme Council 33d, by W. P. Barrett Octavo, considered the most elaborate Masonic book plate, which contains all the insignia of the Scottish Rite. (8vo). pp. xvi, 320, [4pp. advertisements].
The binding is in good condition, with rubbing to the leather/cloth, some wear to the edges, slight pulling to the head cap and some ink numbering/lettering at the bottom. The elaborate spine design still displays very well. The binding is firm, and there are no loose pages. The endpapers are marbled, and the front pastedown features the Supreme Council bookplate. The endpaper hinges and the text block are firm. The pages are in very good condition, and they show little in the way of marks or wear, like it has barely been read. A fascinating copy of this title with excellent provenance. Please see photos for condition. Weight: 491g.