Original 1859 first edition of The Two Paths by influential Victorian art critic and writer John Ruskin, published in London by Smith, Elder and Co.
Full title: The Two Paths: Being Lectures on Art, and its Application to Decoration and Manufacture, Delivered in 1858–9.
An appealing 19th-century edition retaining its original brown cloth-covered boards with blind-stamped decoration and gilt spine lettering. Illustrated with engraved plates, including the pictured “Iron work of Bellinzona.”
This copy shows significant age and binding wear. The front hinge is split/loose with exposed binding material, and there is wear to the spine and boards. Pages show expected age toning, scattered foxing and spotting. There is an old R. Grant & Son, Booksellers, Edinburgh label inside the front cover as well as an earlier handwritten notation.
Currently protected in a clear removable cover.
A genuine Victorian first edition and an attractive collectible for readers of John Ruskin, Victorian art criticism, architecture, decorative arts and 19th-century design.
Details
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Author: John Ruskin, M.A.
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Title: The Two Paths
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Edition: First Edition
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Publication Year: 1859
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Publisher: Smith, Elder and Co.
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Publisher Address: 65 Cornhill, London
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Language: English
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Binding: Original publisher’s cloth hardcover
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Illustrated: Yes
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Country of Origin: United Kingdom
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Condition: Antique / Fair
- Significant front hinge and binding separation
- Rubbing and wear to covers and spine
- Age toning, foxing and spotting
- Previous handwritten notation and bookseller label
- Clear protective covering has been added
- Please review photographs carefully for exact condition
Completeness note: The title page states “With Two Plates.” Only one plate is confirmed from the supplied photographs, so the listing should not claim both plates are present unless the second is verified.
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Import duties, taxes, tariffs, brokerage fees or other customs charges, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility and are not included in the item price or shipping cost.