Books

1782-88. London, Printed for A. and W. Strahan; and T. Cadell, 1781-88. Six volumes, 4to. Contemporary tree calf, all volumes, neatly rebacked in the middle of the 20th century with endpapers renewed, red morocco lettering-pieces, ornamented in gilt; engraved portrait after Reynolds, 2 large folding engraved maps and a smaller map, all by Thomas Kitchin; a little wear to boards, only very occasionally minimal toning or spotting; a very good, clean set. Early editions of Volumes 1-3, first editions of Volumes 4-6. The most celebrated historical work in English literature. "Gibbon's great erudition, breadth of treatment, and powerful organization render this a lasting monument, of substantial accuracy as well as elegance ... most of Gibbon's scholarship remains unchallenged." (Oxford Companion to English Lit.). 'This masterpiece of historical penetration and literary style has remained one of the ageless historical works' (PMM 222). In 1788 Gibbon's friend Adam Smith wrote that 'by…

Published in six volumes between 1776 and 1788, this extensive work by Edward Gibbon provides a detailed history of the decline of the Roman Empire.