GEORGE BICKHAM The Universal Penman. London, H. Overton, (1743).

Large quarto. 213 ff. Third edition. Frontispiece and 212 engraved plates after designs by twenty-five writing masters, many of which contain ornamental headpieces.

All examples are centered around a single theme, from virtues and manners, to past-times and commerce; and so each engraving combines a number of lines of text, along with orthographic embellishments, all engraved by Bickham.

Originally issued in parts between 1733 and 1741, this edition is generally considered the best, as it is the most complete. This is a landmark book on the art of decorative writing, and as such, it saw widespread use, making fine copies difficult to obtain. Several early leaves show some marginal wear and soiling with a three-inch tear to upper margin of the third plate, partially affecting image; the remainder of the text being fine overall, with just some occasional spotting. Bound in contemporary full calf which has been rebacked and shows some restoration to corners and extremities.

Contemporary ownership inscription in an elaborate copperplate hand to preliminary leaf. (Bonacini 208). (21914) $3000.00

[Click here to order online]