The Library of Useless Knowledge

Gasker, Athansius [pen name of Edward William Clarke]

Published by William Pickering, London, 1837

About this Item

First edition. [iv], 52pp. Finely bound by Riviere in half red morocco with marbled sides and endpapers, ruled in gilt, spine decorated in gilt, t.e.g., front wrap bound-in. Very Good overall, rubbed, with tidemark near foot continuing throughout bottom margins, slight warp to boards at foot, hinge starting at various places along bottom edge, foxing to front wrap. Rear wrap not included. A rare satirical title poking fun at the well-known series The Library of Useful Knowledge, promoted by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (1826-1846). Composed primarily of wealthy, reform-minded gentlemen, the SDUK sought to make esoteric science and math related subject matter accessible to the middle and working classes through cheaply-printed (and therefore affordable) material. This humorous work was appreciated by Edward Fitzgerald and William M. Thackeray.

Seller Inventory # 140945857

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Library of Useless Knowledge
• Publisher: William Pickering, London
• Publication Date: 1837
• Edition: First edition.
• Seller catalogs:
  • Essays
  • Humor
  • Literature Before 1900