William Harrison Ainsworth — Windsor Castle an Historical Romance

London, Henry Colburn, 1843. Leather. A beautifully illustrated copy of Windsor Castle, by William Harrison Ainsworth. Direct from the library of the late Hugh Selbourne MD (1906-1973) a noted book collector and diarist. The first edition in one volume. With an engraved frontispiece, etched title page, 18 full plate etchings, 3 wood engraved plates and numerous vignette illustrations throughout the text. It has been said that the wonderful illustrations dominate this text. Tony Jahannot, a French illustrator, began the illustrations. After four illustrations for the Ainsworth's Magazine he was replaced as Cruikshank as the illustrator for the remainder of the work. Windsor Castle was originally published in serial form in 1842. It is a historical, yet gothic, romance which depicts Henry VIII's pursuit of Anne Boleyn. Alongside the main storyline there is a sub plot with the story of the actions of Herne the Hunter, a legendary ghost that haunts Windsor Woods. In a full calf binding. Externally, smart with rubbing to the joints and spine. Small loss to head of spine. Internally, generally firmly bound though strained in places. Pages are slightly age toned with the odd spot throughout. Very Good . Ill.: Unamed. Very Good .