Raphael's Witch !!! or The Oracle of the Future Hardback - 1831

William Charlton Wright, 1831. Book. Illus. by R. Cruiikshank. Very Good. Full-Leather. 1st Edition. 12mo - over 6¾ - 7¾" tall. A fine calf leather binding with 5 raised bands together with full slipcase with the book laid on a pocket for the facsimle illustrations together with the two parts remaining of the original coloured illustrations (see scans) . This is a first edition, printed in 1831, with illustrations and two large coloured folding plates by Cruikshank and the author (part facsimile), together with two leaves of music composed especially for the work by J. Blewitt and with tables, graphs and diagrams in - text. The preface states that 'this book is adapted to lay about in drawing rooms - to be read in gardens and groves, to ornament the boudoir - for amusement in evening parties, as an innocent substitute for cards - to be consulted in every mind and temper' (Raphael's Witch 1831). The author Robert Cross Smith (1795 - 1832) wrote under the pseudonym Raphael and was considered to be an alchemist and astrologer with a broad interest in the occult. He was influenced by Francis Barrett's 'The Magnus' and was said to have been a member of an occult circle that included both Barrett and Sir Edward Lytton. The title mentions 'ten coloured designs' - these comprise of the vignette to title page and the panels of the fold out plates. The folding plates show magical scenes and are entitled 'The Mystical Wheel of Pythagoras' and 'The Tablet of Questions and The Cabalistic Tablet of the Stars'. This is a beautifully presented book, whose internal condition belies its age. Re-binding has been carried out sympathetically and to a high professional standard, with a protective sleeve (see photograph). A desirable addition to a collection, whether for those with an interest in the occult or those who enjoy beautiful and diverse books. Please note this book will only be sent airmail to be signed for with insurance to overseas clients. Guaranteed posting 24hrs from St Ives in Cornwall. .