Boxiana; or, Sketches of Ancient and Modern Pugilism,
From the Days of the Renowned Broughton and Slack, to the Championship of Cribb. By Pierce Egan.
Published in London by Sherwood, Jones & Co in 1823-1829.
PIERCE EGAN'S FAMOUS WORK ON THE HISTORY OF BOXING, VERY FINELY BOUND BY RIVIERE - ONE OF THE BEST BOOK BINDERS THERE ARE!
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Boxiana; or, Sketches of Ancient and Modern Pugilism is a comprehensive and colourful work written by Pierce Egan and published in London between 1823 and 1829 by Sherwood, Jones & Co. This multi-volume collection provides a detailed and vivid account of the history and evolution of the sport of boxing, tracing its origins from the days of renowned fighters such as Jack Broughton and Jack Slack to the era of the famous champion Tom Cribb who is depicted in the illustrated frontispiece in the first volume.
The book delves into the world of bare-knuckle boxing, offering captivating narratives and profiles of various pugilists, their techniques, and the cultural and social context surrounding the sport. Egan's writing style is dynamic and filled with enthusiasm, capturing the excitement and drama of the matches while also exploring the personalities and rivalries of the boxers.
Pierce Egan's Boxiana is notable for its lively descriptions of the boxing matches, the training regimens of the fighters, and the colourful characters who participated in and watched the sport. It covers not only the physical aspects of boxing but also delves into the fan culture, gambling, and the societal impact of the sport during that period.
As a historical document, Boxiana provides valuable insights into the early history of boxing, its role in society, and its transition from informal brawls to a more organised and regulated sport. The work stands as a testament to Pierce Egan's passion for boxing and his dedication to preserving the stories and traditions of this popular pastime during the 19th century.
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Size: 14 x 21.5 cm (approx.)
Condition:
Volume 1 dated 1823, volume 2 dated 1824, volume 3 dated 1829, the first volume bound with an earlier dated engraved title page.
The three volumes show very well indeed on the shelf and are some of the most attractive book bindings of this type and period we have encountered. Spines with some rubbing though this is not particularly aesthetically intrusive and in many ways is complementary to the overall look on the shelf. With all tooled morocco labels present with the particularly attractive red title labels. Joints a little tender with the top joint of the front board of the second volume cracked. All boards attached with the spine of the first volume rebacked and thus very secure. All page edges gilt, very good. Both boards to volumes 2&3 and the front board to volume 1 near fine with the rear board to volume 1 with some rubbing and small areas of discolouration, else very good. Bookplate to front pastedown and verso ffep of each volume. Some toning to illustrated frontispieces and engraved t.p.s else the text blocks are very clean save for some mild toning as typical. Collated as complete with the very nice illustrations of various historical boxers and other related persons throughout.
