1798 The Oeconomy of Human Life

Description

Illustrated, Leather Binding

'The Oeconomy of Human Life' is written as if by an eastern philosopher, giving moral lessons to the reader. This work was first published anonymously in 1751, with it's authorship quickly being falsely attributed to the Earl of Chesterfield. This led to the book being a great success, and running through many editions and translations within the century.

Illustrated with engraved head- and tail-pieces throughout, with a total of forty-nine engravings.

Written by Robert Dodsley, though his name does not appear on the title page of this work. Dodsley was a bookseller and publisher, publishing many of Samuel Johnson's works, helping him to finance his 'Dictionary'. He was briefly imprisoned for publishing Paul Whitehead's satirical poem 'Manners'.

Engraved after Sylvester Harding.

Bookplate of Edward Francis Witts to the front paste down. 

Gift inscription to the recto of the front endpaper, 'F. E. Witts, Presented to me by the Prince Hereditary of Saxe Gotha'. This is likely Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, the father of Prince Albert. Ernest fought against Napoleon during the Wars.

The final four leaves are publisher's adverts.