Description
First edition of Poems by Mr. Gray, published in 1768 and includes the influential “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard.”
Twelvemo, [4], 120pp, [1pp contents], [4]. Contains half title and publishers emblem on title page. Original calf, raised bands on spine, title in gilt over label. Decorative gilt border on covers. This is the second issue, with the contents appearing after page 120. Some separation at front hinge, but stable. Housed in custom blue cloth chemise, title in gilt on spine. Previous ownership bookplates affixed to front endpaper. From the Edward Hubert Litchfield collection. Includes the following chapters: Ode to the Spring, Ode on the Death of a Favourite Cat, Ode to a Distant Prospect of Eton College, Hymn to Adversity, The Progress of Poesy: A Pindaric Ode, The Bard: A Pindaric Ode, The Fatal Sisters: An Ode, The Descent of Odin: An Ode, The Triumphs of Owen, A Fragment and Elegy in a Country Churchyard. (Adams, Cooper, Northrup – 1768)
Comments: Thomas Gray (1716-1771) was considered one of the best lyrical poets of the eighteenth century. A second issue of this book was released in 1768, with “A New Edition” on the title page.
