THE MASTERPIECES OF THE CENTENNIAL INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION: FIRST EDITION, LUSHLY ILLUSTRATED

STRAHAN, Edward and SMITH, Walter and WILSON, Joseph M. The Masterpieces of the Centennial International Exhibition. Philadelphia: Gebbie & Barrie, (1876). Three volumes. Large quarto, original three-quarter brown morocco, elaborately gilt-decorated spines and covers, raised bands, all edges gilt. $2200.

First edition, lushly illustrated with hundreds of full-page and in-text engravings, in handsome publisher’s binding.

A set in three volumes, featuring the art, industrial arts, history, mechanics and science presented at the 1876 International Exhibition in Philadelphia, the first world's fair ever held in the U.S. With over nine million visitors, "The Centennial Exhibition of 1876… gave Americans a chance to reflect on the tremendous growth and development in all aspects of life that had been made in the United States during the first century of independence. Because of its emphasis on national progress, the fair helped heal the wounds left by the troubles of the preceding decades" (Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission).

Faint marginal dampstain to first few leaves of Volume III, interiors otherwise fine; binding lovely and fine. A beautiful copy.