A commonplace book belonging to William Gladstone's sister Anne, c1825-29

GLADSTONE (Anne Mackenzie, 1802-1829). Commonplace book, with inscriptions and contributions by members of the Gladstone family and friends, including Sir Thomas Gladstone and John Neilson Gladstone. [London: c.1825-29].
 
Oblong 4to (190 x 240 mm), c.56 pp. of manuscript entries, with numerous blank leaves remaining; manuscript throughout in several contemporary hands. With 11 original drawings in pencil and watercolour, including landscapes, botanical studies, and figure subjects. Text block gilt. Contemporary red morocco, richly gilt, covers with central panel and initials "A. M. R. G." in gilt, rubbed but sound. Very good. 
 
A family commonplace book belonging to Anne Mackenzie Gladstone, sister of UK Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone, compiled between 1825 to her early death in 1829. The volume was presented to her by her brother Sir Thomas Gladstone, whose inscription to the front endpaper reads: "A. M. Gladstone from her affectionate brother T. G. July 1825." Thomas Gladstone has additionally signed the volume again in 1852, presumably after its return to him.
 
The contents comprise literary extracts, original entries, and contributions by members of the Gladstone family and their circle. Sir Thomas Gladstone has copied passages from George Canning; further entries include a contribution by John Neilson Gladstone dated 1826, alongside texts drawn from Walter Scott and other contemporary authors. Anne Gladstone herself has contributed both manuscript passages and a series of accomplished drawings, including landscapes and botanical subjects.
 
Loosely inserted is an original silhouette portrait inscribed to Katherine Mackenzie (d. 1827), Anne's aunt, with a manuscript verse beneath. A most uncommon Gladstone family commonplace book.