The aim of the present publication is to illustrate, by a series of original Drawings, the various relics which have historical interest, such as Armour, Dresses, Jewellery, Gold and Silver Plate, Furniture, &c. formerly belonging to persons celebrated in history, and which are still treasured up in her Majesty’s collections, in the museums of the nobility and gentry, in colleges, halls, and public museums, &c.

Some few of the relics of the past, having historical associations connected with them, have been represented in archaeological works; but it is necessary to search through many volumes to find even a limited number of them, and the present work would embrace a great variety hitherto unrepresented; at the same time, its peculiar feature, that every subject would be Historical, renders it a book of great novelty and importance.  To the Historian and Antiquary the proposed series of Illustrations recommends itself by its character and importance; to the lover of ancient Art, for the beauty of most of the objects represented; and its claims on the general reader are the connexion of the Relics with the dead whose actions are the theme of history and romance.  To the Artist these Illustrations will be of essential importance; and to the Manufacturer of scarcely less value, as the Relics themselves are, in most cases, either of exquisite beauty of form or striking and characteristic style, and by furnishing data, will enable him to carry out designs in the style peculiar to all periods.

It is proposed to publish the Work in Monthly Parts, containing three Etchings drawn with the most scrupulous fidelity, and illustrative Vignettes beautifully engraved on Wood.  The plates will be coloured, and the size of the Work be imperial 8vo.; a limited number in imperial 4to.; the subjects fully coloured, and the initial letters also.

The Editor will be greatly obliged by communications respecting Relics of Historic Interest being forwarded to 198.  Strand.

Price 2s. 6d. each Part; to be completed in Ten Parts.  Office, 198.  Strand.

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Printed by THOMAS CLARK SHAW, of No. 8.  New Street Square, at No. 5 New Street Square, in the Parish of St. Bride, in the City of London; and published by GEORGE BELL, of No. 186.  Fleet Street, in the Parish of St. Dunstan in the West, in the City of London, Publisher, at No. 186.  Fleet Street aforesaid.—­Saturday, March 30. 1850.