RARE c.1828 Cumberland’s Minor Theatre – Complete 4 Volume Set w/ Original Engravings, Fine Regency Theatrical History
For sale is an exceptionally scarce and complete four-volume set of “Cumberland’s Minor Theatre, with Remarks, Biographical and Critical, by D––G.” Published in London by John Cumberland, 6 Brecknock Place, Camden New Town, circa 1828. This is the prime period of publication for this celebrated dramatic series, as confirmed by institutional reference and publisher address.
Key Features:
•All four original volumes (Vols. I–IV), beautifully bound in period marbled boards and gilt-embellished spines.
•Each volume contains all original steel engravings and actor portraits, as issued—including scenes from famous plays and theatrical portraits, many by noted artists of the era.
•Text block is tight and sound on all volumes; spines remain strong and intact.
•Pages are remarkably clean for their age: minimal foxing, off-white with only light age toning, as shown in the provided photos.
•Perfect for collectors of early 19th-century theatre, fine bindings, or period illustration.
Dating & Provenance:
No publication dates are printed in these volumes, which is standard for this edition. Based on the publisher’s address (“6 Brecknock Place, Camden New Town”) and matching all available institutional records, this set was issued c.1828 near the opening decade of John Cumberland’s role as a premier London theatrical publisher.
Condition:
Good to very good for nearly 200 years old—tight bindings, crisp and vivid engravings, minimal foxing, and no loose pages. Covers show some typical edge/corner rubbing, but volumes retain strong shelf appeal.
Historical Note:
Cumberland’s Minor Theatre is a landmark series in British drama, featuring plays performed at Regency London’s minor metropolitan theatres—complete with commentary and critical notes from the period. Sets with all original plates and in this condition are rare on the open market.
Please inspect the detailed photos for further condition validation. If you have questions or need specific shots of a play, binding, or plate, feel free to ask!