Circa 1800. Volumes II and III only. 310pp; 410pp. Copper plate engravings. Both volumes in matching modern binding of blue cloth boards with gilt lettering on spine. Peach endpapers. 8vos. Bindings are neat, clean, bright and tight. Both volumes lack prelims and volume two also lacks the first 4pp. Some toning to text block edges and, mildly and occasionally, to page faces. Volume three has the inscription of Thomas Lear twice, both dated 1804. Both volumes have a blank bookplate on the front free endpaper.
A nice looking set, but incomplete as noted. Estimated publication date of circa 1800 taken from the fact that volume two includes the phrase 'malefactor's bloody register' - this was later changed to 'villany displayed' in later editions; from the inscription date which appears contemporary and from print and manufacture style. Uncertainty regarding edition and publication (and condition) reflected in price. Likely that further research could identify edition and publication details.
From the British Library: "The Newgate Calendar was a general title given to a number of popular publications in the late 18th century. The books began as compilations of the broadsheets sold by pedlars at fairs and public executions. The original [book form] issue was in 1773 and reported on crime from 1700 to the date of publication."
