An exceptional set of this early work of photographic antiquarianism.
 
First editions. Octavo. The first volume is bound in the very rare deluxe publisher’s binding of full red morocco, richly decorated gilt, with a photographic roundel to each cover. The second volume is in the publisher’s trade binding of full green cloth, decorated gilt, with a photographic roundel to each cover. Both bindings were executed for the publisher by Westley and Co.
 
Twenty-seven photographs to the first volume, twenty-six to the second, including a frontispiece. A bright, near fine set, very well preserved. The first volume is in near fine condition, with only very slight rubbing. The second volume is a little more rubbed, but still very attractive.
A remarkable piece of Victorian book production, combining gold-blocked binding with photography.
 
Westley’s binding for the first of these two volumes was exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1862, and they are the subject of Miriam J. Foot’s ‘A Binding By Westley & Co.’ in the Summer 1982 edition of The Book Collector.