At The Sign of The Lyre by Austin Dobson

Sister book to: London Lyrics by Locker (listed separately)

At the Sign of The Lyre by Austin Dobson, published in London by Kegan Paul, Trench & Co. in 1885 (MDCCCLXXXV). This is a collection of Dobson’s poetry, notable for its literary quality & period charm. This book is a custom & fine binding, as indicated by the “BOUND BY R.W. SMITH” stamp on the inside cover. The binding features a half-leather design with marbled boards,  red leather corners & spine, a style popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

R.W. Smith binding is considered highly collectible. R.W. Smith was a highly regarded American bookbinder active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, noted for his association with the prestigious Club Bindery in New York. Smith was among the first staff members of the Club Bindery, which was established to bring European standards of fine binding to the United States. He worked alongside other prominent binders such as Frank Mansell.
Smith’s bindings are recognized for their craftsmanship, quality materials, & often elegant, understated designs. 

Special provenance as the book is from the late Miss Clairol Model. Does She, Doesn’t She?