The Antiquities of Ireland by Francis Grose - 1791

London: S. Hooper, 1791. First edition. Leather. Good. 10.5" by 7.5". Various. A decoratively bound first edition copy of Francis Grose's study into the antiquities of Ireland, a lavish work with over two-hundred engraved plates. The first edition of this work.Complete in two volumes.Volume I illustrated with a frontispiece, engraved title page, and one-hundred and thirty-eight plates. Collated, bound without one plate.Volume II illustrated with an engraved title page, one-hundred and twenty six plates. Collated, complete.A beautiful study into the picturesque antiquities of Ireland, a comprehensive tour of the country and the prominent beauties.By Francis Grose, who died on an expedition to Ireland to collected antiquarian material for this work, dying in Dublin. This work was subsequently finished by his nephew Daniel and Dr. Edward Ledwich.Bookplate of Ferdinand M. McVeagh to the front paste downs. In a full calf binding with decorative gilt to the boards and spines. Externally, generally smart. Some wear and loss to the joints, a little heavier to the tail of the joints. Some rubbing and light marks to the boards and spines. Cracks to the spines. A small amount of loss to the head of the spines. Bookplate to the front paste downs. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are lightly age-toned and generally clean with some spots. Volume I bound without one plate. Good