Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time — Title Page, Volume I. 1848.

This original antique steel engraved title page is from Volume I of Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time by Sir Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. — one of the most important and beautifully illustrated works ever produced on the history of Scotland’s capital.

Published by Hugh Paton of Adam Square, Edinburgh, and Simpkin, Marshall & Co. of London in 1848, this is a rare and historically significant piece: not a print extracted from within the book, but the title page itself, complete with a second attached leaf bearing Wilson’s personal dedication to his uncle, Peter Wilson Esq. — a touching and intimate inscription that reveals the deeply personal motivation behind this landmark work.

The verso bears the printer’s imprint: “Printed by Hugh Paton, Adam Square, Edinburgh.” A remarkable and unusual survivor from one of the great illustrated books of Victorian Scotland, this piece would be of particular interest to collectors of Scottish history, book history, and Edinburgh topography.

Recto (Title Page): Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time. / By Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. / Acting Secretary of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. / Volume I. / Edinburgh: Hugh Paton, Adam Square / London: Simpkin, Marshall, & Co. / MDCCCXLVIII

Verso: Printed by Hugh Paton, Adam Square, Edinburgh.

Second Page (Dedication): To Peter Wilson, Esq. / These Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time are Dedicated as a mark of sincere Gratitude and Affection by His Nephew, The Author.

Author: Sir Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. (1816–1892)

Publication: Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time. By Daniel Wilson, F. S. S. A. Acting Secretary to the Society of the Antiquaries of Scotland.

Volume: I

Publisher: Hugh Paton / Simpkin, Marshall, & Co.

Place of Publication: Adam Square, Edinburgh / London

Date: 1848

Artist: Sir Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. (1816–1892)

Page Number: Title Page

Paper Dimensions: 12 x 9 ⅛ inches

Medium: Steel Engraving

Language: English

Coloured: Black and white

Condition: The title page is in good condition with some areas of foxing across the print and some wear around the edges, including a faint crease to the top left corner and some discolouration to the top and left-hand side, as can be seen. The attached dedication page has some faint foxing and minor edge wear.

Reference: Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time, HathiTrust Digital Library