The History of England From the Invasion of Julius Caesar, to the Revolution in 1688 by David Hume, in Eight Volumes. Published in London in 1820 for Richardson & Co, et. al.
[Together with] The History of England From the Revolution to the Death of George II (Designed as a Continuation of Mr. Hume's History) by Tobias Smollett, in Five Volumes. Published in London in 1820 for Richardson & Co, et. al.
Potentially owned by Lord Kelvin (William Thomson) with an ink ownership inscription of William Thomson to the front pastedown of every volume which closely matches known examples of Lord Kelvin's, the very famous and accomplished physicist from whom the Kelvin temperature scale derives its name among a significant number of other important scientific discoveries. We are not signature experts however and make no confirmation or authentication to this end, we can however say that the ink is of the period of Lord Kelvin's lifetime and in our non-expert eye, matches known examples of his signature.
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This comprehensive and influential work covers the history of England from ancient times, starting with Julius Caesar's invasion, and continues through various epochs, dynasties, and pivotal events, with David Hume's history culminating in the Glorious Revolution of 1688, with Smollett's picking up where Hume's history left off and covers the period from the Glorious Revolution of 1688 to the death of George II.
Hume's work is known for its rigorous analysis, thoughtful interpretation, and elegant writing style, which contributed significantly to the development of modern historical writing. Smollett's continuation follows in the footsteps of Hume's methodology, providing readers with a detailed and engaging account of England's history during this critical period.
Both Hume's original work and Smollett's continuation are a fantastic read for understanding the political, social, and cultural evolution of England. These works offer readers a deep dive into the historical events, personalities, and transformations that shaped the nation over several centuries. The combination of Hume's foundational history and Smollett's continuation provides a comprehensive narrative that remains relevant for scholars, students, and history enthusiasts interested in England's rich and complex past.
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Size: 14 x 21.5 cm (approx., each)
Condition:
Spines rubbed with many tooled title labels lacking or fragmented. Some loss to gilt and wear to extremities. Shelf and edge wear. All boards are attached with some rubbing across the joints but with all joints secure. The volumes are structurally excellent and without shelf lean. Top page edges dulled as typical with other edges very good with a spotted design. Some minor scuffs to boards but they are generally very good or better. Edge toning of endpapers as commensurate with the calf bindings. Bookplate to front pastedown of each volume with the motto Lente in Voto and the ink signature of William Thomson to each volume (potentially the very famous physicist, also known as Lord Kelvin). Mild toning through the text blocks but generally very clean and internally excellent.
