Examples in the two series presented in this work are chiefly reproduced from title-pages, borders, and head- and tail-pieces of 16th century books, portraits, seals, bindings, etc.
The preface of each series is signed W S M in monogram; on the last page of the 2nd series is a reproduction of armorial binding, altered from the binding of Appiani Historiarum libri, 1554, the arms of Henri duc de Guise being replaced by those of the editor, with motto: Gang.forward. I.am.ready. William.Stirling-Maxwell.
First series (1867): Title-page with title engraved within heraldic design, in black and arms of editor on verso, x p. (pref. and contents), 70 plates, [3] p. (illus.); Second series: Title-page with title in black within engraved border in red and preface on verso in red, within heraldic border in black, [iii]-x p. (contents), 36 plates, [xi]-xiii p. (index), [1] p.
The work was executed in photolithography by Stephen Ayling.
Provenance
The verso of the front loose endpaper has an inscribed presentation letter pasted to it: 'Presented to the Library / of the / Royal Academy / With the compliments / of the Editor / William Strling Maxwell / London April 28th 1869'
Binding Note
Brown leather spine has gilt lettering, 'Ornamental Heraldry Of The Sixteenth Centvry'.