Hogarth Illustrated

London: J & J Boydell, 1791. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 9" by 6". William Hogarth. A very smart first edition of John Ireland's illustrated study of William Hogarth's work. A first edition in smart, full tree calf binding, with gilt detailing. This set is complete in two original volumes, complete as issued. With a supplementary volume three added in 1798. A compelling study of the work of the renowned painter and engraver William Hogarth, best known for his series A Harlot's Progress, a Rake's Progress and Marriage a-la-Mode. His satirical caricatures became widely popular. This study was written by John Ireland, a great admirer and collector of his works. The work is comprised of anecdotes of Hogarth, with studies of each of Hogarth's famous works. With forty-five illustrations in volume one and a further thirty-seven to volume two. Collated, complete. Collegii Sti. Augustini Bookplate to the blank following the title page. With an ink inscription of George Gilbert to the front paste down, dated 1831. A later date added to the front paste down, of 9.13.11 and 9.13.12. In full, tree calf binding. Externally, generally smart, with slight rubbing to the extremities, causing a loss to the leather at the front corners. Light bumping to the head and tail of the spine. Light rubbing to the joints and to the gilt. Slight spotting and offsetting to endpapers. Tape reinforcing hinges. Age toning to endpapers. Ink inscriptions to the front paste down. Internally, firmly bound. Pages generally bright and clean, with slight spotting, heavier to the first and last pages and to the plates. Very Good