Fables By the Late Mr. Gay (Vol. I)

Abstract

Bodemann 110.7. Though she indicates that this is a two-volume work, there is no second volume present or indicated here. This volume includes Gay's original 50 fables, apparently with prints of the original Wootton and Kent engravings. Notice the physical impression these engravings make on the paper of these pages! As to the engravings themselves, they are disappointing to me as I come directly from viewing the Stockdale engravings that imitated them. The imitations there seem to me stronger and livelier than the originals here. I am surprised by the degree to which the Stockdale edition followed the visual motifs set down by Wootton and Kent. This is a great example of an old book in my collection. It is in fair condition or better. I am amazed that I found it--and found it for this kind of price.