 |
 |
Healthful Sports For Young Ladies [ Rudolph Ackermann; publisher]. Mademoiselle St. Sernin. Oblong 8vo. 72pp. Frontispiece and ten hand colored engraved plates. Contemporary and probably original marbled boards, red russia spine and corners, spine lettered in gilt and with central gilt lettered and ruled label on the cover. A near fine copy. London: Printed for R. Ackermann, Repository of Arts... by W. Clowes, Northumberland cout., [1822]. First edition, very rare. A charming book with very fine illustrations. The text includes original poetry by William Combe. The author states in the preface that the most eminent physicians believed it necessary for young ladies as they advance toward womanhood to take active and regular exercise and to avoid all sedentary amusements. A great number of diversified games were provided which were conducive for health and useful for developing a “graceful carriage”. Some of the recommended activities are blind man’s buff, hoops, bowls (nine pins and seam), quoits, and shuttlecock, among others. What makes this book so interesting, in addition to the text, is the delightful, expressive, finely detailed illustrations of the girls at play. Not in Tooley or Abbey. For more images click here |
 |
 |
Email us at booksinfo@bartfield.com for higher res images |