The Imperial Library | Rare 1898 Leather-Bound Literature Volumes XVII–XX

A distinguished set for The Heritage Stable House, The Coastal Library, The Sporting Estate, or The Designer’s Courtyard, these late-19th-century leather-bound volumes bring the depth and character of a thoughtfully collected library to an interior.

Published in 1898 as part of the Imperial Edition De Luxe of The International Library of Famous Literature, this rare grouping includes Volumes XVII–XX from the first edition, reportedly limited to just 1,000 copies. Each volume retains its original genuine leather binding, richly finished in deep oxblood-burgundy with black spine panels, gilt lettering, fine gold rules, and repeating clover motifs.

More than books for the shelf, these are beautiful decorative objects in their own right. Their aged leather, time-softened edges, and restrained gilding lend the authenticity that newly made décor simply cannot reproduce. Style the collection upright between antique bookends, stacked beneath a brass lamp, or layered across a library table alongside equestrian art, collected objects, and framed studies.

They feel equally at home in the Stable House library, a harbor-side reading room, the Sporting Estate’s gentleman’s study, or among the art and objects of a designer’s collected interior.

Set Details

• Antique International Library of Famous Literature
• Imperial Edition De Luxe
• Published 1898
• First Edition
• Limited edition of 1,000 copies
• Includes Volumes XVII, XVIII, XIX & XX
• Original genuine leather bindings
• Burgundy and black leather with gilt detailing
• Sold as a set of four

Condition

Authentic antique condition consistent with age and use. The leather has been conditioned and restored, with lightly repaired fraying at the corners and generalized surface and extremity abrasion, particularly at the heads of the spines. One volume has a split along the front hinge of the spine; the cover remains firmly attached.

These age-related variations are part of the collection's history and contribute to its distinctive, timeworn character.

Dimensions

• Volume XVII: 9.5" H × 6.75" W × 1.75" D
• Volume XVIII: 9.5" H × 6.75" W × 1.75" D
• Volume XIX: 9.5" H × 6.75" W × 1.78" D
• Volume XX: 9.5" H × 6.75" W × 1.78" D

Bay & Bridle Styling Note: Pair with aged brass, dark woods, leather, equestrian sculpture, antique portraiture, and collected works on paper for the layered feeling of a library assembled over generations.