GIBBON. THE HISTORY OF THE DECLINE AND FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE, 1778-1783, FIRST EDITIONS (6 VOL.)

4to, 6 volumes, FIRST EDITIONS (volume 1 with preface dated Feb 1, 1776), portrait frontispiece dated 1780 in volume 1, 2 folding maps in volume 2 and 1 in volume 3, cancel leaves G1 (signed *G) and Ll1 (signed *L1) in volume 2,  H3 (so signed) and L2 (signed *L2) in volume 4, errata leafs each in volume 1-3,  errata for volumes 4-6 at end of volume 6 on verso of 4U1, contemporary diced russia gilt borders, spine gilt in compartments, marbled endpapers, lacking half-titles, spotting (often concentrated, particularly volumes 1-3), small chipping and minor loss to a few leaves lower margins, volumes 1, 2 and 6 re-backed retaining original spine, minor soiling to boards with some small abrasions, spines with some surface loss, bumped and rubbed

Colin Deacon, pencil initials

ESTC T78356, T78360, T78362, T78365

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The 12 pages of contents and the portrait frontispiece in volume one were issued with the first edition of the second volume.