William Mason — Poems

Glasgow, Robert and Andrew Foulis, 1774. Vellum. A collection of William Mason's poetry, in a uniform vellum binding. Scarce and in unusually pleasing condition. Complete in two volumes held in a handy pocket-sized format. William Mason held a number of posts in the Church and was a keen poet. His 1747 poem Musaeus, A Monody on the Death of Mr Pope was well received and therefore went through a number of editions. He also wrote two historical tragedies, Elfrida and Caractacus which were used in translation as libretti for 18th century operas. This is the first Foulis edition of Mason's poetry. The Foulis brothers worked in partnership as printers to the University of Glasgow. They dominated the book trade in Glasgow and held an international reputation for their publications of the classics. Volume I beings with Musaeus followed by his Odes, Elegies, Epitaphs and Dramatic Poems. Volume II contains Caractacus followed by his Letters and Illustrations of Caractacus. In full vellum bindings. Externally, very smart with minor rubbing to the extremities and to the head and tail of spines. Boards have several marks and spots. Prior owner's bookplate to the front pastedown of volume II with the monograph 'R H.' Internally, both volumes are firmly bound. Pages are generally bright. The occasional light spots. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .