Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Don Quixote with this rare 4-volume set of "The History of The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Published in 1870 by Little Brown and Company in Boston, this original 1st edition is a treasure for any collector of classic literature. The leather binding and beautiful typography speak to the quality of craftsmanship that went into creating these volumes.


Explore the adventures of Don Quixote and his faithful squire Sancho Panza as they embark on a journey filled with humor, satire, and a glimpse into the social and political landscape of 17th century Spain. This set is a must-have for anyone interested in literature and fiction, and is a valuable addition to any collection of antiquarian and collectible books.


This edition of Don Quixote of La Mancha was translated by Peter Anthony Motteux, edited by John G. Lockhart and originally printed in Edinburgh in five volumes in 1822. This edition was published in 1865 in four volumes in Boston, United States of America.


Motteux's translation was revered for many years and is essential for those who wish to study the many translations  of Don Quixote, & an excellent example of the cultural attitudes and beliefs of the translation at the time as is inherent in all historic translations.  This edition also includes very interesting copious notes at the end of each book explaining the translator's knowledge, a lengthy essay on the life and writings of Cervantes, and separate author's preface to the reader.


The books are made of brown polished calf over boards with marbled paper sides, marbled end papers, and marbling to all ends of the text blocks with five raised bands on each.


Vol I: Binding is tight. Normal wear and tear on cover edges and spine. Page discoloration from dust typical of age.


Vol II: Binding is tight. Normal wear and tear on cover edges and spine. Small tear on front interior marbled paper side. Page discoloration from dust typical of age.


Vol III: Binding is tight. Normal wear and tear on cover edges and spine. Page discoloration from dust typical of age.


Vol IV: Binding is tight. Normal wear and tear on cover edges and spine. Page discoloration from dust typical of age. Front cover pulling away from the spine.


All books are in good condition for age. Normal wear and tear is present in all four volumes and is typical of  age. Please see pictures for reference.