The Lorgnette: or the Studies of the Town, By An Opera Goer, C1850

A sharp and engaging satirical portrait of mid-19th century New York, first issued in parts and later collected in volume form. The Lorgnette presents a series of letter essays in which the author, adopting the persona of an urbane flaneur, surveys the city’s theatres, opera houses, fashionable promenades, and social rituals. The tone is observant and lightly mocking, offering an early and influential example of American urban social commentary. Illustrated. C.1850. First Series. 

Good Condition. Brown cloth with gilt titles to spine. Binding is firm. Pages are lightly tanned. Previous owner's inscription to front free end paper date 1893. Boards have moderate edge-wear withh some bumping to corners and crushing to spine ends casuing fraying. Small split to spine and front board joint.