Antique Book 1838 History Bastile Davenport Thomas Tegg Marbled Board French For Sale

A genuine piece of early Victorian printing on a subject that never loses its fascination. \"The History of the Bastile, and of its Principal Captives\" by R. A. Davenport (Richard Alfred Davenport, 1777–1852), published by Thomas Tegg and Son, London, 1838. Thomas Tegg was one of the most prolific and important London publishers of the early 19th century, known for producing affordable but well-made editions of history, biography, and reference works for the growing middle-class reading public. This is a classic Tegg production — 464 pages covering the history of the infamous French prison and the stories of those held within its walls, from the Ancien Régime through the Revolution.

The binding is three-quarter leather with leather spine and corner tips and the signature colorful peacock-pattern marbled paper boards that are so associated with quality British bookbinding of this period. The marbled pattern is bold and multicolored — red, ochre, blue, black, and cream in the classic combed wave design. The book measures approximately 7 x 4.5 inches. Check photos carefully for spine and board condition — the marbled boards are visually dramatic and display beautifully.

This is the kind of book that sells to French history collectors, Bastille/French Revolution researchers, decorative antique book buyers, and anyone furnishing a library with authentic 19th-century volumes. The subject matter — the Bastille, its prisoners, the lead-up to the Revolution — is perennially compelling.

Please look at photos closely for condition. Packed and shipped with care from a smoke-free home. Check out my shop for hundreds of high-quality vintage objects, quality clothing, hand made items, and antique books. Combined discounted shipping always available. Questions welcome... I love to meet my customers! Alexandra, AKA Delicious Alex 📚 📦 💌