[MALLET, Robert, et al.]

The Record of the International Exhibition 1862

Glasgow: William MacKenzie, [1863]. First Edition. First printing. Quarto (28.5cm). In full leather, blind-stamped with Prince Albert and shields of participating nations on boards, and symbols of the exhibition contents (plow, mining equipment, exhibition hall) on spine, titled in gold on spine, all edges marbled; blue and red marbled endpapers; iv, 592pp; illustrated title page, 18 engraved plates, and 14 full-page relief plates, as well as extensive numerous in-text wood engravings. A straight, sound copy with minor shelf wear, small ink stain to lower edge of text block, scattered foxing and minor thumbsoiling, pl. 9 spotted and creased, but overall a sturdy, appealing copy: Very Good.

A resource on Victorian industrial technology, manufacture, architecture, and fine and decorative arts, as well as natural resources and some trade statistics. It includes extensive material on the print trades (3pp essay on chromolithography, 5pp on paper, 12pp on presses and typefounding), with a note on the miniature Albion press offered "as an intellectual source of amusement for ladies and gentleman during a leisure hour" (383). It also provides a window onto popular attitudes and discussions of imperialism, colonialism, and international competition, as well as historical criticism of past exhibitions. Rydell also notes that it "includes a history by Robert Mallet of industrial exhibition buildings from 1798 to 1862." RYDELL 135.

Price: $850.00

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