Cowper, William (1731-1800)

"The life of William Cowper written by himself. Copied from a manuscript in the possession of Mr. Johnson." This life, covering the period 1731 to 1765, 'gives full accounts of his first attacks of insanity' (Dictionary of National Biography): it was published in 1816.

c.1820

1 volume 69 ll. + 23 bl. ll. 8vo. 18 x 11.5 cm. Original limp calf binding.

Purchased at Sotheby's,. 26/1/1899, Lot 695 (part).

Mr. John Johnson (1769-1833) was the poet's cousin.

Database description transcribed from S.A.J. Moorat, Catalogue of Western Manuscripts on Medicine and Science in the Wellcome Historical Medical Library (London: Wellcome Institute for the History of Medicine, 1962-1973).