"HIS WRITINGS SHOULD ENLIGHTEN THE FIRESIDE OF EVERY CITIZEN": RAYNER'S 1832 SKETCHES OF THOMAS JEFFERSON

(JEFFERSON, Thomas) RAYNER, B.L. Sketches of the Life, Writings, and Opinions of Thomas Jefferson. With Selections of the Most Valuable Portions of His Voluminous and Unrivaled Private Correspondence. New York: A. Francis and W. Boardman, 1832. Octavo, full contemporary tree calf, elaborately gilt-decorated spine, marbled edges. $2200.

First edition of this early collection of Jefferson's writings and biography, with engraved portrait of Jefferson and view of Monticello, in contemporary tree calf.

In Life of Jefferson, journalist and historian Rayner presents an early and well-informed record of the Founding Father's life work. In this lively account, Rayner makes significant use of Jefferson's original letters and correspondence, as published by his grandson Thomas Jefferson Randolph three years earlier. Also featured are illuminating anecdotes from those who knew Jefferson, as well as extensive selections from his private memoirs and many of his eloquent writings on history, politics, science, morals and religion. With the engraved frontispiece portrait of Jefferson and the engraved view of Monticello. Sabin 68118. Contemporary ink and pencil owner inscriptions dated the year of publication on front free endpaper and flyleaf.

Light embrowning and foxing (heavier on first few leaves); binding with minor rubbing, small chip to spine foot. A handsome copy in contemporary tree calf.