The Life and Times of James Catnach, (Late of Seven Dials), Ballad Monger #247074

"The Life and Times of James Catnach," owes its origin to the circumstance that, in 1869, the compiler of the present work published "The Catnach Press," and guaranteed only "Two Hundred and Fifty Copies Printed - namely: 175 on Fine and 75 on Extra-thick paper. Each copy numbered." The outer and descriptive title set forth that the work contained: -<br><br>"A Collection of Books and Wood-cuts of James Catnach, late of Seven Dials, Printer, consisting of Twenty Books of the Cock Robin Class, from 'This is the House that Jack Built, to Old Mother Hubbard' (printed with great care) spécialite at The Catnach Press, from the old plates and wood-cuts, prior to their final destruction, to which is added a selection of. Catnachian wood-cuts, many by Bewick, and many of the most anti-Bewickian character it is possible to conceive."<br><br>The announcement of the publication of the work was first made known through the medium of the metropolitan press, some few days prior to the copies being delivered by the bookbinders, and so great was the demand of the London and American trade, that every copy was disposed of on the day of issue.