The Biographical Mirrour .

3 volumes, 4to, 151 engraved portraits, contemporary panelled red morocco gilt, g.e., London, E. Harding, 1795-93. A very fine copy.

Silvester Harding (1745-1809), Artist and publisher is associated with 215 portraits. Harding was a miniaturist and engraver, born in Newcastle-under-Lyme and sent to London to an apprenticeship with a hairdresser as a boy. He ran away at the age of fourteen and spent several years in a company of strolling players before embarking upon a successful career as a miniature painter in 1775. He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1777 to 1787. Harding also collaborated on illustrated publications with his brother, a librarian, and his son, an engraver. Published works by Harding include Illustrations from Shakespeare, The Biographical Mirror and Memoirs of Count de Grammont. National Portrait Gallery