Thomas Moore, SONGS, BALLADS AND SACRED SONGS with Fore-Edge Painting

Publisher: Longman, Brown, Green, and Longmans, London

Publication Date: 1855

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Very Good

An extraordinary copy of this popular 19th century title by the Irish poet. Bound in contemporary green Shagreen with exquisite gold tooling, raised bands at the spine. All edges gilt, the fore-edge features a hidden or "disappearing" painting - visible in full when the page-edges are fanned to the right.

According to a previous owner pencil note to the verso of the front endpaper, the image is "Stallion with Brood Mare and Foal". 8vo, pp. 284, with illustration at title page.

The binding is firm and square. Rubbing with minor loss of the leather at the corners and at the corners of the backstrip. Very small scuffs at the joints. Previous owner bookplate fixed to front pastedown. Appears to be entirely free from foxing or spotting. Excellent condition and a spectacular example of the bookbinder's art.