1817 Rare Illustrated Edition ~ The Complaint; or, Night Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality by Edward Young.

Author: Edward Young. Richard Westall, illustrator.
Title: The Complaint: or, Night Thoughts.
Publisher: London, Printed for John Sharpe, 1817.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 6.5 "X 4 ".
Pages: 324 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good beautifully gilt decorated dark burgundy full morocco leather binding (hinges tight, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, some light foxing or staining - as shown, gift note of a previous 1819 owner on the second blank page - as shown).
Illustrations: Complete with the illustrated title page and the beautiful nine-chapter/night vignettes by Richard Westall.

The book: A rare 1817 illustrated edition of "The Complaint; or, Night Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality" by Edward Young. This work, a masterpiece of British literature, delves into profound themes of life, death, and the human condition, presented through an evocative and contemplative poetic style. This edition, printed by John Sharpe, is notable for its beautifully detailed vignettes that accompany each of the nine chapters, enhancing the reader's experience of the poetry.

The author: Edward Young (1683–1765) was an English poet, best known for his work "The Complaint, or Night Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality." Initially published between 1742 and 1745, this series of poems is recognized for its deep exploration of existential themes and its influence on the Gothic genre. Young's writing is celebrated for its powerful emotion and contemplation of mortality, making him a pivotal figure in the transition towards Romantic literature.

The illustrator: Richard Westall RA (2 January 1765 – 4 December 1836) was an English painter and illustrator of portraits, historical and literary events, best known for his portraits of Byron. He was also Queen Victoria's drawing master.