John Gay — Fables

London, R and C Rivington et al , 1793. Leather. A lovely copy of John Gay's Fables, lavishly illustrated throughout. With vignette title and engraved plates to every fable. With a life of the author. Darton and Harvey printing. John Gay (30 June 1685 – 4 December 1732) was an English poet and dramatist and member of the Scribleurs Club. In 1727 he wrote for six year old Prince William, later the Duke of Cumberland, Fifty-one Fables in Verse, for which he naturally hoped to gain some preferment, although he has much to say in them of the servility of courtiers and the vanity of court honours. Rebacked in calf with original boards. Externally very sound, smart spine, nice patina to older boards although they are a trifle rubbed. Internally, firmly bound. Bright with light scattered spotting, heavier to the plates, and some tidemarks to the plates. Dusting to title. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .