Joseph Addison Richard Steele, 1753

Updated August 18, 2026

Complete eight-volume 18th-century edition of The Spectator, the celebrated English periodical founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, published in London for J. and R. Tonson and S. Draper in 1753 (MDCCLIII). Each volume retains its period full-leather binding with raised spine bands and gilt volume numerals, the interiors illustrated with engraved frontispieces and title-page vignettes depicting literary and theatrical subjects, including portrait medallions traditionally associated with the work. The set comprises Volumes I through VIII and represents the collected essays originally issued in periodical form during the early 18th century. Volume I bears an early handwritten ownership inscription appearing to read “Gust. Sully / 1901.” The books exhibit considerable age-related wear, including extensive rubbing, drying and cracking of the leather, losses along spine ends and joints, splitting and weakness to several hinges and bindings, scattered foxing and toning, edge wear, and other handling marks consistent with approximately 270 years of use; several bindings would benefit from professional conservation, though the set retains a highly appealing untouched antiquarian character. Note: although described as 19th century, the photographed title pages clearly give the publication date MDCCLIII, or 1753, making this an 18th-century set.

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