The Anglo-Saxon Review.

London: John Lane,, 1899-1901. Late-Victorian extravagance First edition of Volumes Two to Ten, second edition of Volume One, a complete set of this elaborate historical and cultural journal, one of the most opulent, expensive (a guinea a volume), and frequently satirized periodicals of its time. The cover designs followed those of various ornate Renaissance bindings, the paper quality is high, and the volumes are attractively illustrated throughout. Lady Randolph was the mother of Winston Churchill, who advised her that the publication should endeavour "to preserve a permanent record of the thoughts and aspirations of our times, which vary as swiftly as light changes on running water, for wiser ages yet unborn" (cited in Sullivan, p. 16). The series contained articles by Winston himself (arguing for the creation of a cavalry force worthy of the empire), Henry James, George Gissing, Stephen Crane, and many other worthies. Subscribers included heads of state, royalty, and some of the wealthiest families of Britain and the United States. The second edition of Volume One was published the same year as the first. Provenance: the collection of Steve Forbes, chairman of Forbes Magazine, and presidential candidate in the 1996 and 2000 US elections; his book label is loosely inserted. 10 vols, large octavo. With 62 engraved plates including frontispieces. Original sheep in various colours, each richly gilt in design, top edges gilt. A few headcaps a little worn, some light spotting, partly unopened, some gatherings opened a little roughly. A very good set. Alvin Sullivan, British Literary Magazines: The Victorian and Edwardian Age, 1837-1913, 1983.