Recollections of an Excursion to the Monasteries of Alcobaca and Batalha

London: Richard Bentley New Burlington Street, 1835. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 8.5" by 5.5". None. The first edition of William Beckford's travel letters written during his excursion to the monasteries of Alcobaca and Batalha in 1794. The first edition of this work. Bound without the half-title. Published as 'by the author of 'Vathek'', which is known to be Beckford. William Beckford was a popular Englsih novelist whose knowledge on art and politics lead him to be regarded as the richest commoner in England at one time. His Gothic novel 'Vathek' is held in esteem by many and he is also known for building Fonthill Abbey and Lansdown Tower (Beckford's Tower) in Bath. With the bookplate of Rev Robert Knox to the front pastedown. Knox was a Bishop for the Church of Ireland before becoming Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. With a portrait frontispiece of Beckford. This excursion was made during Beckford's second visit to Portugal in 1794-1796. The work recounts twelve days total and comments on various rambles, encounters and gardens at the monasteries and their surrounding areas. In June 1794 Beckford visited the two churches that are North of Lisbon in Estremadura. Alcobaca was built in the 12th century by the Cistercians and Batalha was built by Dominicans in the late fourteenth century. Both locations differed in architectural style considerably. The DNB states that these two locations strongly influenced his plans at Fonthill. These recollections were written from notes and letters written by Beckford at the time. He penned the work some years later towards the end of his life. An important work which can be used to understand the origin of Beckford's own architectural vision. In a half calf binding with marbled boards. Externally, generally smart. Rubbing to the boards at the extremities, which are bumped. Light rubbing to the joints and to the raised bands of spine. Gilt has faded to the spine. Minor shelf wear to the head and tail of spine. Prior owner's bookplate to the front pastedown, Rev Robert Knox. Front hinge is slightly strained but remains firm. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright with just the odd spots. Very Good