London, Tonson and Draper, 1753. In 8th, 8 vols. Frontispiece table of each single volume, light browning, coeval sponged calfskin binding with gold decorations on plates and spine, sprayed edges. Ex libris noble "Salisbury Rug" on the pastedown. Together in the lot are two volumes of The Guardian, printed in London by Tomson in 1756.
Specialist Notes
The eight original and complete volumes of the "Spectator", daily publication of 1711-'14. This is the sought-after 1753 edition of the complete publication of the 'Spectator' newspaper, which set out to 'revive morals with wit, and temper wit with morals', addressing a wide audience, including the middle class. Founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, it began publication between 1711 and 1712, only to be revived in 1714 without Steele's participation, three times a week for six months. The Spectator sought to provide readers with topics for cultured and intelligent discussion, and to engage in social interaction in a polite manner.
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