Bell, John, publisher.

18mo, 109 volumes with the works of 50 poets, engraved title-pages, frontispiece portraits by Mortimer, Stothard and others, contemporary tree calf, Greek roll-tool borders to covers, spines in seven compartments, the first, third, and fifth with a neo-classical lyre tool; the second in green morocco with poet's name; the fourth and six in red morocco for author's volume number and green morocco for set volume number; marbled endpapers, yellow edges, head of spines sometimes worn or very slightly chipped, further wear to edges of binding

CBEL I, Vol II., p. 259

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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A near fine set of "Bell's Poets". John Bell (1745-1831) was London agent and distributor for the Edinburgh printers the Martin Brothers, who published in 1777 an edition of  "The British Poets". Most (first edition) volumes in the present lot were printed between 1778 and 1784, but there are also a few second edition volumes.