Single book- 9.75" H x 7" W x 1.5" D
Written In English
This handsome two-volume set of The Pall Mall Magazine captures the spirit of Victorian literary and artistic culture. Published in London in 1895 and 1896, these bound editions (Volumes VII and IX) feature a rich mix of serialized fiction, essays, travel narratives, poetry, and finely executed illustrations. Edited by Lord Frederic Hamilton and Sir Douglas Straight, The Pall Mall Magazine was one of the leading illustrated journals of the late 19th century, rivaling The Strand in quality and readership. Its pages carried contributions from celebrated authors, along with essays on science, exploration, and art that reflected the intellectual curiosity of the Victorian age.
The set is beautifully bound in half-leather with gilt tooled spines, raised bands, red leather title labels, and striking marbled boards and edges. These bindings were custom ordered for permanence and display, making them as much decorative objects as literary works. With essays such as “Is Mars Inhabited?” and stories like The Ace of Hearts, these volumes embody the eclectic mix of culture, science, and imagination that defined the fin de siècle. Together, they offer both collectors and decorators a snapshot of the late Victorian era at its most refined.
Condition:
This two-volume set is in good antique condition with handsome half-leather bindings, richly gilt spines, and marbled boards and edges that retain much of their original vibrancy. The bindings remain secure and the books are structurally sound. There is expected rubbing and wear to the leather, particularly along the spine ends, joints, and corners, with some chipping and surface loss at the headcaps. The marbled boards show light scuffing and marks from age and handling, but the decorative effect is still striking. Internally, the pages are generally clean and legible with some age toning and scattered foxing, most noticeable on the prelims. No pages appear to be missing, though as with all periodical volumes, they are sold as-is. A period bookseller’s label from Hayward of Croydon is present on the pastedown of each volume, adding provenance.
