PBA Galleries

40 issues in one volume. [1], xvi, 455 pp. Engraved title.  (8vo) 20.6x12.2 cm (8x4¾"), contemporary calf (rebacked), red leather label, gilt lettering.  First Edition.  

An interesting college literary periodical by Etonians Henry Spencer, George Canning, Capel Loft and John Hookham Frere, which became popular in London and went through several printings and later collected editions.  The contents vary widely from general literary criticism (novel writing), discussion of booksellers and publishers (“Mr. Newbery's Little Books”) to philosophical and humanitarian subjects (cruelty to animals, swearing, narcissism), etc.  The contributors identify themselves in the final issue following an obituary of their pseudonymous editor, Gregory Griffin. This is a complete run of the first editions, each issue with its own title page, all of which is preceded by a general title, engraved title and table of contents.

When encountered, bound copies of The Microcosm usually contain later editions which lack the individual title pages. Ownership signature on front pastedown.