Life of Field-Marshal His Grace the Duke of Wellington

London: A. H. Baily, 1839-41. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 8.5" by 5.5". Not Stated. A smart first edition of Maxwell's acclaimed biography of the Duke of Wellington, illustrated throughout. Complete in three volumes. First edition. The life of Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, a British statesman, soldier, and Tory politician considered one of the leading military and political figures of nineteenth century Europe. He also served twice as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Starting with the birth, lineage and education of the Duke, Maxwell covers all of his expeditions and battles, until the end of his military career. To the rear of Volume III is an appendix, offering further details on the Napoleonic Wars. Volume one is illustrated with frontispiece, a title page vignette, a dedication plate, a folding map of Spain and Portugal, thirteen engraved plates, and many in-text images. Volume two is illustrated with a frontispiece, a title page vignette, fourteen engraved plates, and many in-text images. Volume three is illustrated with a frontispiece, a title page vignette, and fourteen engraved plates. Collated complete. Written by William Hamilton Maxwell, an Irish novelist and military historian. In the original half straight grained morocco with paper covered boards. Externally, smart with rubbing and minor bumping to the extremities. The odd small mark to the boards with light fading to the extremities. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are very bright and clean. Light spotting and age toning to the first and last few pages. Very Good