John Gay — Fables. By the Late Mr. Gay

London, C. Hitch; L. Hawes; J. and R. Tonson, 1762 . Leather. Beautifully illustrated throughout with engraved plates, this volume offers volumes the short moral fables of 18th century dramatist and poet John Gay. A mid 18th century edition of the fables of English poet and dramatist John Gay, best remembered for his works 'The Beggar's Opera', and 'The Wife of Bath&apos. Written in verse with rhyming couplets and purportedly drawing inspiration from classical works, these moralizing fables were originally composed to educate and amuse the six year old Prince William Augustus, third son of King George II. Illustrated with an engraved title page, and thirty-three further engraved plates.  ESTC N7883 Inscription to a front blank. These short fables were immensely popular in their day, going through numerous editions in the eighteenth century. In a full calf binding, with gilt detailing to back strip. Lacking spine label. Small loss of calf to back strip head. Joints starting, with boards firmly held. Ink marks to fore edge of front board. Inscription to a front blank. Internally, firmly bound. Pages lightly age toned due to paper type, otherwise clean and bright. Good . Ill.: Not Stated. Good .