4. BOREMAN, Thomas; publisher.
Curiosities in the Tower of London. London: Tho[mas] Boreman, 1741. Vol I (only, of 2), 32mo. (2 1/4 x 1 3/4 inches; 58 x 44mm). 14pp. subscribers list, 4pp. advertisements. Woodcut frontispiece and 12 full-page illustrations, occasional woodcut ornaments. Original Dutch floral boards. Condition : binding with covers rubbed, neatly rebacked.
a well-read but delightful little volume: the second edition of the third volume in boreman’s “gigantick histories” series of miniature books (issued the same year as the first edition). A landmark in the history of children's books, the Gigantick Histories series are amongst the earliest secular publications printed explicitly for young children, both to amuse and instruct: "That author, doubtless, aims aright, Who joins instruction with delight" [from the Dedication, p vi]. It includes a 14pp subscriber lists recording actual children's names. Cf. ESTC T118393 (both volumes, gives format as 64mo); Wilbur Macey Stone. The Gigantick Histories of Thomas Boreman III.
est. $1000 – $1500