c. 1870 Jane Austen Novels, Complete with Memoir

A scarce and beautifully preserved Victorian edition of Jane Austen’s collected works, published by Richard Bentley & Son — the final publisher to hold Austen’s rights during the 19th century. This matched seven-volume series includes Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey, Persuasion, and the Bentley edition of A Memoir of Jane Austen by her nephew J.E. Austen-Leigh.

Bound in original 1870s half morocco leather, with gilt-tooled spines, raised bands, leather corners, marbled paper boards, and all edges marbled, this set represents one of the more desirable luxury Victorian binding styles. The marbled endpapers and richly patinated leather add depth, charm, and unmistakable 19th-century character.

The accompanying Memoir volume (third edition, 1872) includes not only Austen-Leigh’s biography, but also Lady Susan and fragments of two additional unfinished tales, making this set especially appealing for collectors who appreciate Austen’s lesser-known works alongside her major novels.

As is typical of early Bentley printings, each volume is elegantly proportioned, beautifully typeset, and offers the full experience of reading Austen as her earliest Victorian readership did — with the added benefit of a premium binding that was considered a luxury option in its day.

A complete and cohesive Bentley set from this date is increasingly difficult to find, particularly in condition suitable for both display and reading. This collection presents beautifully on a shelf and would make an extraordinary addition for collectors of English literature, early Victorian bindings, or anyone building an heirloom library with intention.

Origin: London, Richard Bentley & Son (1870–1872)
Material: Original 1870s half morocco leather with marbled boards; gilt tooling; raised bands; marbled edges
Dimensions: Each volume approx. 7.5" H
Condition: Good antique condition with expected wear for 154 years. Light rubbing to corners and hinges; scattered foxing on several pages; and a few areas where individual page edges sit slightly proud of the text block (not loose, simply shifted with age). Bindings remain sound, spines reflect wear with the leather sympathetically refreshed and conditioned, and the set reflects both decades of careful use and the intentional care of collectors who recognized its importance.