First edition of the last of Austen‘s works to be published during her lifetime, with Cooper-Powys family provenance and in a fine contemporary binding. Duodecimo, three volumes bound in three quarter contemporary calf over marbled boards with gilt titles and Greek key ruling to the spines, rebacked with original spines laid down, half-titles. From the library of Lissey Ann Powys (née Cooper) with her contemporary ownership inscription to the front free endpaper of Vol. I, “Lissey Ann Powys Berwick House 1817” and name to the second endpaper of Vol. II and front free endpaper of Vol. III, “L.A. Powys.” Lissey Ann Powys (née Cooper, 1753–1832) married Thomas Jelf Powys (1744–1805) in 1770. She was likely related to Jane Austen’s cousin, Reverend Edward Cooper (1770–1833), either through her Cooper family line or through Edward’s marriage into the Powys family. In 1793, Edward married Caroline Isabella Powys (1775–1838), the daughter of Philip Lybbe Powys. The Powys family were friends of the Austens and are mentioned frequently in Deirdre Le Faye’s Chronology of Jane Austen and Her Family. Gilson A8; Keynes p. 14; Sadleir I, 62d. Provenance: Lissey Ann Powys; Lady Juliet Duff (née Lowther, 1881-1965) with her bookplate to each pastedown; FS|CA bookplate to each volume. In near fine condition, small ink spot to title page of Vol. III, some minor toning throughout. A very desirable example of this key work the evolution of English literature with distinguished provenance.
