The History of The Decline and Fall of The Roman Empire. In Twelve Volumes, With a Life of the Author Written for this Edition.

"The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" by Edward Gibbon, published in Edinburgh in 1811 and printed for Bell and Bradfute and others. This complete twelve-volume set is Gibbon's monumental history of the Roman Empire, tracing its decline and transformation across the ancient and medieval worlds. A substantial antiquarian set for collectors of Roman history, classical civilization, and important historical literature.

Octavo (5.5" x 8.5"). Twelve volumes complete, bound in full brown tree calf. The spines feature gilt rule bands, gilt lettering on black leather labels, gilt volume numbers, and ornate filigree gilt devices in the remaining compartments. There is edgewear throughout, with bumped and rubbed corners and some loss to the tips. The heads and feet of the spines are chipped on most volumes. Three spines have earlier lengthwise repairs, most hinges are tender, and two boards require repair.

Early penciled notes appear on the front pastedowns and endpapers, with an early ownership inscription in ink on the first free endpaper of Volume I. Volume I includes an engraved portrait frontispiece and a large folding map with a small closed tear to the tab and minor closed tears at the edges. The second map called for is bound in Volume VII and remains in excellent condition. Moderate foxing occurs on the first and last few leaves of text, with toning and small spots within the text throughout.