William Somervile — The Chase: A Poem

London, Printed by W. Bulmer and Co. Shakespeare Printing Office , 1796. First edition. Leather. A smart copy of this poem by William Somervile, the first edition to be embellished throughout with numerous engravings by Thomas Bewick. ESTC T108434A large paper volume, the first edition of William Somervile's poem The Chase, originally published in 1735. This is the first edition with embellishments by renowned illustrators John and Thomas Bewick published in 1796. There is a second edition of this issue published in 1802, with numerous extra illustrations. The Chase, originally 'The Chase', is Somervile's most known poem, in which he pioneered an early English georgic. The true charm of this volume comes from the thirteen illustrations which enrich it, drawn by John Bewick and then engraved by Thomas Bewick.With a brief biographical sketch of Somervile. In a half calf binding with five raised bands and titles stamped in gilt on a leather label to the front board. Externally smart with some shelf wear and a minor edge wear, as well as a minor rubbing to the leather and boards. With a faint damp marking to the front board, causing the cloth to cockle slightly. With a library bookplate to the front pastedown. Internally, firmly bound. With a minor faint scattered spotting ot the leaves, which are, generally, bright and clean. Illustrated with thirteen engravings in text by Thomas Bewick. Very Good . Ill.: John Bewick; Thomas Bewick. Very Good .