William Makepeace Thackeray — The Virginians

London, Bradbury & Evans , 1858-9. First edition. Leather. First issue of William Makepeace Thackeray's historical novel complete in two uniform volumes and adorned with illustrations by Thackeray himself. The first book form edition, first issue of this work with 'actresses' for 'ancestresses' on page 207, line 33, of vol. I; and chapters XLVII and XLVIII vol. I misnumbered XLVIII and XLIX. A historical novel by William Makepeace Thackeray, first book form edition complete in two volumes dated 1858-9, following the original publication in twenty-four monthly parts, first appearing in November 1st, 1857. The story forms a sequel to his other popular work Henry Esmond, following the story of Henry's two grandsons, George and Henry Warrington and their experiences at war. Critical reception was generally favourable, and the novel has continued to be considered one of the standard works of 19th century fiction. This book is illustrated by Thackery himself, with an number of vignette illustrations, twenty-three plates to volume I, twenty-three plates to volume II, and an illustrated title page to each volume. All illustrations present, bound without half-titles. In uniform half calf bindings over marbled boards and edges, gilt to spine, new marbled endpapers. Externally generally smart with minor shelf wear, spine and extremities rubbed. Internally, firmly bound. Light spotting scattered to leaves, particularly leaves of plates. Illustrated with vignette illustrations in text and forty-six full page plates. Very Good . Ill.: William Makepeace Thackeray. Very Good .