Character Sketches of Romance, Fiction and the Drama – 4-Volume Set – 1892 -1896 – Selmar Hess – Rev. E. Cobham Brewer

This is a complete 4-volume set of Character Sketches of Romance, Fiction and the Drama, published between 1892 and 1896 by Selmar Hess (New York) and edited by Marion Harland.

Each volume is packed with character histories, literary references, and cultural background in an encyclopedic dictionary format.  The volumes feature hundreds of full-page etchings.  Each volume measures 10” x 12” and contains around 400 pages.

The volumes have leather covers with gilt detailing and page edges.  Two of the four volumes’ covers are starting to separate from the spines and one volume’s cover has separated.  Though their exteriors are in poor to fair condition, the interior pages, including illustrations, are in great condition.  This set with patina is appropriate for display as part of your antique decor.