The Oriental Annual Containing a Series of Tales, Legends, & Historical Romances
By Thomas Bacon
With Engravings by W. and E. Finden (all present)
Published by Charles Tilt: London 1839
Notes:
Original leather bindings with all plates present as called for (18 in total).
"The Oriental Annual; Containing a Series of Tales, Legends, & Historical Romances is an illustrated travel and storytelling volume authored by Thomas Bacon and published in 1839 by Charles Tilt of Fleet Street, London. This edition is part of a broader series known as The Oriental Annual, which began in 1834 and featured various contributors over the years.
The 1839 volume is distinguished by Bacon's firsthand sketches from his travels in India, which were transformed into detailed steel engravings by the renowned artists William and Edward Finden.
The book comprises 250 pages and includes 16 tissue-guarded plates (plus Frontis plus Vignette), offering readers a blend of narrative and visual exploration of South Asian landscapes, architecture, and cultural scenes.
This edition reflects the 19th-century British fascination with the Indian subcontinent, presenting a mix of romanticized tales, historical accounts, and vivid imagery. The engravings depict temples, palaces, and everyday life, providing a visual complement to Bacon's descriptive prose. Published during the height of British colonial interest in India, the book catered to contemporary audiences eager for insights into the exotic and unfamiliar. Today, The Oriental Annual serves as a valuable historical artifact, offering perspectives on colonial-era travel literature and the artistic interpretations of India during that period .
General wear and some rub through to leather covers and spine as shown. Includes all 16 plates + Frontis + Vignette as called for. Some age toning and light foxing present otherwise pages typically clean and well presented. Front endpaper sits loose with no other loose pages. A very nice copy in good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
