HISTORICAL MEMOIRS OF THE HOUSE OF RUSSELL (2 Vols)

(Vol. 1) 26cm x 18cm x 4cm; pp. 563 plus plates. (Vol. 2) 26cm x 18cm x 4.5cm; pp 604 plus plate. Both bound in green cloth with paper label on spine. 

Written by a member of the Society of Antiquaries of Normandy, this pair of books delves into the ancestry of the contemporary Earl of Bedford, John Russell, reaching as far back as 1066AD. Over the course of centuries, the author traces the Russells through crusades, the accession of kings, the deaths of princes, and through wars in foreign countries up until the late sixteenth century. Full plate illustrations of significant figures and architectures bring the histories within touching distance. A fascinating read.

Both volumes bumped and with shelf-wear especially at the head and foot of spine. Both with gift inscriptions from Mary Wiffen on early pages. Subtle foxing on early and later leaves on both volumes, otherwise little to no foxing throughout.