Author: Bird, Henry Edward (1830-1908)
Year: 1893
Publisher: Dean & Son, Ltd
Place: London
Description:
xxiv+138 pages with frontispiece portrait and diagrams. Octavo (8 1/4" x 5 1/2") bound in original red cloth with gilt lettering to spine and cover. (Betts: 5-4) First edition.
Mainly an epitome of previous writings on the history of the game, together with the author's own reminiscences over 40 years of chess activity. Contents: Preface (this includes a general introduction and review of 19th century English chess; also a reprint of Steinitz's review of Bird's Chess openings (1879). Concerning the origin of chess (repeats the various theories on the origin, and traces the early progress of chess). Chess in Arabia, Spain, France, opinions on chess and its origin in Middle Ages and modern. The 19th century (this chapter includes Bird's reminiscences)
Condition:
Previous owner's gift inscription to front paste down, some light foxing, a touch of rubbing at extremities else a very good copy.
SOLD 2020