Lot 15
  • 15

Richardson, George.

Estimate
1,000 - 1,500 GBP
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Description

  • A Book of Ceilings Composed in the Style of the Antique Grotesque... Livre de plat-fonds. London: for the author, 1776
first edition, folio (550 x 380mm.), text in English and French, engraved dedication and 48 numbered plates, one double-page, list of subscribers, original boards, uncut, lacking a preliminary leaf ('To the public'), binding rather worn

Provenance

The Earls of Devon

Literature

BAL RIBA 2752; Harris 735; not in Fowler

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Richardson worked for the Adam brothers and this publication, his first, shows their influence. It was reprinted on two further occasions and seems to have been moderately successful, though his success in publishing such pattern-books was at the expense of his career as a working architect as his books "obviated the need for anyone to employ him personally" (Harris). Subscribers to this work included John Adam, William Chambers, William Ince, James Paine and James Wyatt.