Title: The plays of William Shakespeare.
Publisher: London, Bell and Daldy.
Publication Date: 1868
Binding: Hardcover
Book Condition: Very Good
Complete 13 volume set. All edges gilt, 23 x 19 x 12.5 cm (dimensions of casket). Publisher's full, crimson red, soft, blind embossed, morocco bindings, spines lettered & numbered in gilt. Three volumes very slightly bumped at the top of their spines. Presented in quirky, contemporary, dome-topped wooden casket painted with faux wood grain to resemble a rich mahoghany, with folding down front flap, brass hinges, four bun feet and gilt decoration, lettering and faux escutcheon with keyhole on the front. Lined with anaglypta patterned cream paper (an historical 1920s refurbishment perhaps). Two tacks missing -leaving one hinge less secure. Historic repair near right hand hinge to front flap. The base has bowed slightly in the middle. An entirely novel way to have kept and presented the complete 13 volumes of the Bard's works and suitable anywhere from the library desktop, to the display cabinet. Bell & Daldy only existed from 1856-73. There is no copy of the edition in WorldCat and none currently listed for sale. This bizarrely presented but complete set is rare. Bookseller Inventory # 5031