All 6 Plate Engravings/Map Present As Called For.
"
This first edition (1815) offers a richly detailed early nineteenth-century portrait of Warwick and its great castle, written at a moment when antiquarian interest, domestic tourism, and spa culture were rapidly expanding in England. Intended "principally for the information of strangers," the work combines historical narrative with descriptive topography, tracing Warwick's origins from early British and Saxon traditions through Norman consolidation and medieval development, with particular attention given to the architectural evolution, legendary associations, and political importance of Warwick Castle. The prose reflects the period's blend of scholarship and polite guidebook style, designed to educate as well as to accompany the visitor's eye.
Beyond Warwick itself, the volume extends its scope to the neighbouring spa of Leamington, then emerging as a fashionable health resort, documenting its rise, amenities, and social appeal. Short notices of surrounding towns and villages within a ten-mile circuit provide a valuable snapshot of the wider Warwickshire landscape as it was understood in the Regency era. The text is supported by a complete suite of six engraved plates, including views of Warwick Castle and environs together with a fold-out map of ten miles round Warwick, all present as called for, enhancing both its documentary and visual appeal.
As an early regional guide that straddles antiquarian history and practical travel literature, this volume captures a formative moment in English local history writing, when scholarly interest met an expanding culture of leisure and exploration. Its survival with all plates intact makes it an especially desirable example of provincial printing from Warwick in the early nineteenth century, appealing in particular to collectors of English topography, Warwickshire history, early travel and spa literature, and illustrated Regency-period books."
General wear and fading to covers with peeling to fragile outer spine as shown. Outer hinges split but covers are secure and holding strong. Binding in general is excellent with no loose pages and all plates and map present as called for. Pages very clean and well presented with no foxing - some age toning to plates/tissue papers. Light staining to endpapers at back of book. An excellent copy in good to very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
