[Sir Walter Scott] — Quentin Durward

Edinburgh, Archibald Constable and Co. 1823. Leather. A lovely copy of the first edition of Sir Walter Scott's historical novel Quentin Durward, in three very smart volumes. The first edition of this work in a half calf binding, with marbled boards and edges. Previous owner's stamp to the front paste downs. Ink inscription to the title pages of all volumes. Quentin Durward is a historical novel by Sir Walter Scott, first published in three volumes in London on 17 May 1823 by Hurst, Robinson, and Co. and in Edinburgh two days later by Archibald Constable and Co. Sir Walter Scott was best known for his Waverley novels, which were the most popular and widely read novels in Europe for almost a century. As with all the Waverley novels published before 1827, this work was first published anonymously, only stating that it was written by 'The Author of 'Waverley, Peveril of the Peak' to the title page. The story concerns a Scottish archer in the service of the French King Louis XI (1423–1483) who plays a prominent part in the narrative. In a half calf binding. Externally very smart, with minimal rubbing to the extremities. Colour and gilt remain bright. Irregularity in the marbling to the front board of Vol II. Marbled paper to the front board of Vol I is lifting very slightly. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are very bright and clean except for the odd spot to the first and last few pages. Near Fine . Ill.: None. Near Fine .