When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hudibras by Samuel Butler – 1761 London Edition – William Hogarth Engravings – Early Military Provenance?Offered is an original 1761 London edition of Hudibras by Samuel Butler, complete with engraved illustrations designed by William Hogarth, including the engraved frontispiece portrait of Samuel Butler and numerous engraved plates throughout the text.This is an authentic 18th-century leather-bound edition with original period binding. The book retains its engraved illustrations, although several plates exhibit edge losses, tears, and old repairs. The binding shows significant age and wear but remains an attractive example of this classic Hogarth-illustrated edition.Provenance / Ownership ResearchThe front endpaper bears an early ink ownership inscription that appears to read:“James Clarke” followed by military notation that appears to reference the 4th Infantry.Also present is a very faint early ownership stamp that appears to read:“Captain D. Clarke” (or similar).I have researched these ownership marks and located a documented James Clark who graduated from West Point in 1825, served as an officer in the 4th U.S. Infantry, later resigned his commission, entered the Jesuit order, and eventually became President of Holy Cross College. However, because the inscription in this book appears to indicate a Captain, while the documented West Point officer is not known to have attained that rank, I cannot state that they are the same individual.Accordingly, the ownership inscriptions are being offered as unresearched historical provenance for the next collector. They present an intriguing opportunity for additional research.Features* Original 1761 London edition
* Engraved frontispiece portrait
* Numerous William Hogarth-designed engravings throughout
* Early ownership inscription
* Faint early ownership stamp
* Contemporary leather bindingConditionThe book is complete as far as I can determine but is being sold as found.Condition includes:* Heavy wear to the original leather binding
* Detached and weakened joints
* Edge wear and rubbing
* Age toning
* Scattered foxing
* Several engraved plates with tears, edge losses, and old repairsPlease examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report.A fascinating 18th-century Hogarth-illustrated edition with intriguing early military ownership awaiting further research.
