Antique Victorian Illustrated Gift Book – Sing a Merry Madrigal (c.1880s–1890s)
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Bring a touch of Victorian charm to your collection with this beautifully illustrated antique gift book, Sing a Merry Madrigal. Dating from the late 19th century, this enchanting volume reflects the golden age of chromolithography, when publishers delighted readers with richly colored plates and sentimental verse.
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Features & Details
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Title: Sing a Merry Madrigal
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Date: Circa 1880s–1890s
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Publisher: Likely Marcus Ward or Ernest Nister, both renowned for fine chromolith gift books (no publisher’s page present).
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Style: In the manner of Kate Greenaway, with charming illustrations of children in 18th-century costume.
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Content: A collection of whimsical poems including April Showers, Jolly Jack, Valentine, and Dollie, each accompanied by a full-page chromolith illustration.
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Size: Small quarto, hardback format.
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Condition Report
This is a genuine antique book with visible signs of age and handling:
Boards and spine show wear, rubbing, and corner bumping.
Binding is loose in places, with some separation to inner hinges.
Pages have age-toning, scattered foxing, and occasional marks.
One dedication on the front endpaper (“For Dear Violet”).
Illustrations remain bright, clear, and highly attractive despite surface wear to text pages.
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Collectability
Victorian chromolith gift books are prized for their nostalgic charm and decorative appeal. This volume is particularly desirable for its period illustrations in the Kate Greenaway style, making it ideal for collectors of Victorian illustrated books, antique children’s poetry, and chromolithography.
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Given its age and condition, this copy is priced fairly and an accessible way to own an authentic piece of Victorian publishing history.
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✨ A delightful addition to any collection of antique books, or a thoughtful gift for lovers of Victorian illustration and poetry.
