[COMBE, WILLIAM]. THE ENGLISH DANCE OF DEATH, 1815-1816 [AND] THE DANCE OF LIFE, 1817 (3 VOL.)

i) The English Dance of Death, from the designs of Thomas Rowlandson, with metrical illustrations, by the author of "Doctor Syntax". R. Ackermann, 1815-1816, 2 volumes, 8vo, frontispiece in volume one, additional pictorial title in volume one, 72 coloured aquatint plates (36 in each volume) by Rowlandson; ii) The Dance of Life, A Poem, by the author of "Doctor Syntax"; illustrated with coloured engravings by Thomas Rowlandson. R. Ackermann, 1817, 8vo, frontispiece, pictorial title, 24 coloured aquatint plates; FIRST EDITIONS IN BOOK FORM, uniform full calf, flat spine gilt in compartments, all edges yellow, bindings worn, upper joint split of "A Dance of Life" (3)

Abbey Life 263-264

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, 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."

According to Abbey, "the Dance of Death and The Dance of Life were originally issued in twenty-four and eight monthly parts respectively. It is possible that the extraordinary success of Dr. Syntax caused Ackermann to over-estimate the demand for the new venture, with the result that a large number of unbound sheets were left on his hands".