This timeless masterpiece from Gibbon is impressive not only for its thoroughly captivating description of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire; it is also an education in verse — the language and organization of the text is outstanding. Gibbon knew how to write and it is little wonder that his magnum opus still lines the bookshelves of bookshops everywhere. This beautiful set is an absolute must in any serious library. It is a truly excellent edition. These seven illustrated books include an introduction, notes, and appendices by J. B. Bury. Published by AMS Press as a seven-volume reprint, quarter-bound in leather, 3/4 quality cloth, and sewn pages, of the famous 1909 J.B. Bury edition of "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire." This ‘unabridged’ set has all of Gibbon's footnotes and the text is large and clear. This is the first Edition AMS Press publication, published in 1974; and a very well made edition. So well made, and cared for, that it looks like it was published yesterday. Condition: Very good (see images). Very good for 50 year old volumes. Books are solid with no marks, tears or damage. There is some discolouration on top edges of books (see image 7) but still looks good. The owner stamped the 3rd page of each volume with an elegant non-ink personal library stamp (see image 10, bottom of right). Weight: Per book Between 870g to 940g. 15 x 22 x 4.5 to 5cm
