William Cowper — Poems (1793), Restored Presentation
$595.00
Each volume is restored using archival research, conservation methods, and traditional binding techniques, and presented here with a hand-attached book board, hand-marbled edge finish, and a carefully restored page structure.
Living under the pastoral care of John Newton — the former slave trader turned author of Amazing Grace — Cowper co-wrote some of the most beloved hymns in the English language. Among them, timeless classics: There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood, God Moves in a Mysterious Way, and O for a Closer Walk with God.
In this video, Scott walks you through the craftsmanship of the restoration, the history of Cowper’s Poems, and the details that make this volume a meaningful keepsake for a home library or a deeply personal gift.
Watch the finished result of William Cowper’s 1793 Poems, and discover the devotion and craftsmanship that go into every volume.
Order today, and let this classic rest with you.
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An exceptional 18th-century edition of William Cowper’s poetical works, including “The Task,” “John Gilpin,” and his celebrated shorter lyrics. Printed by the renowned Joseph Johnson—publisher to the radicals and greats like Mary Wollstonecraft and William Blake—this 1793 Fifth Edition represents one of the most desirable early collected versions of Cowper’s work.
This set has been masterfully restored for the modern collector. The volumes are “rebacked,” utilizing the original 18th-century sprinkled calf boards. The new spines feature deep raised bands, exquisite gold-stamped floral motifs in the panels, and crisp gilt-lettering for the titles and volume numbers.
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- Internal: Remarkably bright and crisp for 230+ years of age. Typical light foxing consistent with the period, but the paper remains supple and the J. Johnson title pages are notably clean.
- External: Structurally superior. The professional spine restoration ensures the hinges are strong and the volumes open flat. The original boards show an “honest” antique patina that perfectly complements the new leatherwork.
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- Publisher: J. Johnson, St. Paul’s Churchyard, London.
- Date: 1793 (Fifth Edition).
- Format: Two Volumes, Octavo.
- Binding: Full Sprinkled Calf, Raised Bands, Gilt Tooling, Marbled Edges.
Scott walks you through the craftsmanship of the restoration, the history of Cowper’s Poems, and the details that make this set a meaningful keepsake for a home library or a deeply personal gift.
Watch on YouTube →
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| Grade | Short definition | Key signs to look for | Typical use / value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine (F) | Virtually as issued; near‑new for its age. | Tight, original binding; clean, unmarked pages; original leather or cloth intact; minimal shelf wear. | Collector quality; commands the highest premium. |
| Very Good (VG) | Light signs of use but well cared for. | Minor rubbing at edges; small scuffs; sound binding; complete text and plates/maps present. | Collectible; desirable but lower premium than Fine. |
| Good (G) | Clearly used; moderate wear and handling signs. | Fading or spine rubbing; light foxing or inscriptions; small tears; structurally sound. | Solid reading copy; modest market value. |
| Fair | Worn but generally complete text block. | Heavy wear to boards; loose hinges; missing endpapers or half‑title; soiling or repairs needed. | Low value; suitable for restoration or rebinding. |
| Poor / Reading Copy | Heavily damaged; often only the text remains usable. | Detached covers; missing pages; severe water/mold damage; heavy foxing or staining. | Reference or restoration only; minimal market value unless content is exceptionally rare. |
Note: Binding condition (original, rebacked, or binding copy) and presence of plates, maps, or family registers significantly affect value. Please look at all photos and read the entire description when evaluating a listing.
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