Bisset's magnificent guide, or, Grand copperplate directory, for the town of Birmingham. : comprising the addresses of the most eminent public companies, bankers, merchants, tradesmen, and manufacturers in the "Toy-Shop of Europe." Alphabetically arranged in elegant and emblematic engravings, containing upwards of fifty superb plates, with views of the principal buildings, &c. Exclusive of a view of the Royal Mint and Soho Manufactory. dedicated, by permission, to his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. /
Bisset, J.(James),1762?-1832.
Bisset, J.(James),1762?-1832.Poetic survey round Birmingham.
Knight, Richard,Professor,former owner.StEdNL: RB.m.796(1)
Birmingham: : Printed (for the Author) by R. Jabet, Herald Office, and sold by all booksellers in the imperial kingdoms.,
1808..
Added engraved title page.
Previously published: A poetic survey round Birmingham. Birmingham : Printed for the author by Swinney and Hawkins, 1800.
By the early 19th century, businesses were using trade cards to advertise their work to customers. Using copper-plate engravings, the directory provides a collection of images creating a catalogue of Birmingham's businessmen and women.
James Bisset (1762?-1832) was a Scot. At the age of fifteen he became an artist's apprentice in Birmingham, and later established a museum and shop for the sale of curiosities in New Street, Birmingham.
From the collection of Professsor Richard Knight, Edgbaston.
Original full straight grain red morocco, bound for presentation; faint gilt decoration to sides, spine gilt.
Engraving
Bank notes
England Birmingham.