Original MS Letter from George Cruikshank with proofs of the Etchings Done for Saint James's or the Court of Queen Anne by W. Harrison Ainsworth

[London]: [John Mortimer], 1844. MANUSCRIPT letter by Cruikshank and proofs of illustrations. Late 19th century signed binding by Riviere & Sons in full brown morocco with gilt designs in imitation of Cruikshank on cover with a huge signature of Cruikshank on the front cover. Raised bands on spine. Same gilt signature and illustration designs on back cover. The back shows the original color of the leather -- green which has faded to an even brown elsewhere. Gold rolled edges with all edges of the paper gold. Elaborate gilt inner dentelling and border. Just what you would expect from Riviere & Sons. Marbled endpages. Title page in black and red lettering. Leaf after title page contains a mounted manuscript from Cruikshank which reads "256 Hampton Road NW, Nov. 28, 1853. My Dear Friend, The comes hoping to find you well as it leaves me at present. If you can make it come (?) to call here on Wednesday ior Thursday afternoon at 4. You will see a sketch of a "Fairy Ring" by yours, very very truly Geo Cruikshank. P.S. ==> ==> ==>" with arrows pointing over. The other side of the letter is visible on the verso of the page because a "window" has been made in the page for the letter. Cruikshank continues on the back: "My wife joins with me in kindest regards to Mrs Morson and yourself and regrets that she was from home when you dear good lady called." The book then goes immediately to the proofs done by Cruikshank for the magazine appearance of Ainsworth's _Saint James's or the Court of Queen Anne_ which was serialized in John Mortimer's magazine and later issued in book form. These proofs are LARGE with paper measuring 12.5 by 8.5 inches with wide full margins and clear plate impression. The IMAGE size measures 8.5 by 5.5 inches. Margin spots to a few of the pages but most are bright and clean. Overall in VERY GOOD condition. This is an exceptional and unique gift for the Cruikshank collector. George Cruikshank (September 27, 1792—February 1, 1878), caricaturist and book illustrator. Born in London, England, he was a member of the Cruikshank family of caricaturists and artists, the son of Scottish painter and caricaturist Isaac Cruikshank. . Signed by Author. First Edition. Full Morocco Leather. Very Good. Illus. by George Cruikshank. Folio - over 12" - 15" tall. Hardcover.