Author: Dearn, T. D. W.:

Title: An Historical, Topographical and Descriptive Account of the Weald of Kent.

Publication: Cranbrook: S. Reader, 1814.

Description: First edition. 4to. pp. [4], (vii), [1], (lvi), 277, [1], (vi). With 9 steel-engraved plates. Edges untrimmed and somewhat dust-soiled, offsetting from plates, slight foxing to first few leaves, occasionally elsewhere. Modern half calf over marbled boards, raised bands, spine gilt, gilt-lettered morocco label. Couple of small stains to rear cover. Bookplate of Ernest Bryan Gipps to front pastedown.

Superbly-illustrated work on the history and topography of Kent. Each chapter is devoted to a locality, including Ashurst, Cranbrook, Leigh, High Halden, Tunbridge and the Ilse of Oxney. The section of Penshurst, immortalised by Ben Jonson, includes an account focusing on the 16th century, with mentions of Sir Philip Sidney. In addition to an engraved map of the Weald of Kent, 8 further steel-engraved plates - designed by the author and cut by M. Dubourg - illustrate city and country views of Cranbrook, Hemsted Benenden (its mansion and church), Bonnington Church and the remains of Trinity Chapel, Angley House, Elfords (Hawkhurst), Moor House and Fowlers (Hawkhurst).

Bibliography:

Reference Number: [53179]

Price: £225

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