{"product_id":"the-spectator-eleventh-edition-1733-complete-eight-volume-set-antique-collectible","title":"The Spectator – Eleventh Edition, 1733\nComplete Eight-Volume Set Antique Collectible","description":"\u003cp\u003eA remarkable complete eight-volume set of The Spectator, printed in 1733, retaining its period full-leather bindings and displaying nearly three centuries of age and character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, The Spectator is one of the most influential English periodicals of the early 18th century and an important work in the history of English literature, journalism, manners, and social commentary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis set is particularly interesting for its early ownership inscription.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn inscription appearing in the books reads approximately:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Geo: Taner \/ E Coll: Exon. \/ 1734”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur research suggests a compelling possible identification with George Taner of Devon, who matriculated at Exeter College, Oxford, in 1731, subsequently received his B.A., entered the clergy, and later served as a Devon vicar. The inscription's reference to “Coll: Exon.” (Exeter College) and its 1734 date, just one year after publication and during Taner's time at Oxford, make the association particularly intriguing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis attribution is presented as research rather than a definitive authentication of the signature. Regardless of attribution, the inscription provides evidence of very early 18th-century ownership and adds considerably to the historical character of the set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe volumes retain their matching early leather bindings with raised spine bands, gilt decoration and individual volume identification. Together, the eight books have a wonderful, unmistakably Georgian appearance and display beautifully as a complete set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Good antique condition considering the books are nearly 300 years old. The leather bindings show substantial age-related wear, rubbing, scuffing, surface loss and deterioration, particularly along the spines, edges and corners. There is expected toning, foxing, spotting and other evidence of age internally. The books nevertheless remain an impressive, cohesive eight-volume set. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetails\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTitle: The Spectator\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEdition: Eleventh Edition\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDate: 1733\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComplete set: 8 volumes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLanguage: English\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBinding: Period leather\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarly ownership inscription dated 1734\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApparent Exeter College, Oxford association\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGeorgian \/ early 18th-century English books\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn unusually atmospheric complete set for the collector of early English literature, Georgian books, Oxford-related material, historic libraries, or decorative antiquarian bindings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Workshop \u0026 Study","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54176017514812,"sku":null,"price":795.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0966\/3987\/7436\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_862fa3e2-5d72-4b52-ad44-f8f3c5bb1982.png?v=1788060126","url":"https:\/\/workshopandstudy.com\/products\/the-spectator-eleventh-edition-1733-complete-eight-volume-set-antique-collectible","provider":"Workshop \u0026 Study","version":"1.0","type":"link"}