First edition, first printing (i.e. Teerink A). Frontispiece portrait of Gulliver in the second state, as usual, with vertical chain lines and the lettering around the oval frame. Two volumes (195 x 122mm), bound in contemporary panelled calf with gilt volume numbers to the spine. Third volume in similar contemporary panelled calf with morocco title label to the spine. Five engraved maps. Extra illustrated with three contemporary double page engraved plates after Jos. Grison bound in at the rear of each of vols I & II. Engraved frontispiece to vol III. Joints and spine ends neatly repaired and minor wear to corners, internally fresh. A very good copy. House in early twentieth century chemises and quarter morocco slipcase.

The author's masterpiece and landmark in the early development of the novel. The first printing was published on 28 October and sold out within a week and was quickly followed by two further printings in 1726, which are subtly different to the first printing, though bibliographically distinct as shown by Teerink in his bibliography of Swift, and referred to as Teerink AA and B issues.
The "spurious" third volume, so called because it is generally accepted to be not by Swift, was anonymously published in 1727, a year after the original volumes. The first part appears to be a parody of the original whilst the second is a pirating of Denis Vairasse d'Allais' Histoire de Sevarambes, the whole being an attempt to cash in on the instant success of the original.
"From the highest to the lowest, it is universally read, from the Cabinet-council to the Nursery" - John Gay
"Gulliver's Travels has given Swift an immortality beyond Temporary Fame" (PMM)

PROVENANCE: E[dwin].M[arion].Cox (1869-1942, American surgeon, noted bibliophile and collector of early literature, who lived in London from 1903 and edited a critical edition of Sappho in 1924. Bookplates to each pastedown and pencil note to rear indicating he acquired vols I & II in 1907 and vol III in 1909).

Teerink 290; PMM 185

Stock ID: 37185