The Memoirs of J. Decastro, Comedian.

First edition. This 1824 volume offers the memoirs of an early nineteenth-century circus comedian, with an overview of the life of Philip Astley, the 'father of the modern circus'. Jacob Decastro (also spelled De Castro, 1758–1824) was an English comedian and Sephardi Jew, who started out as a mimic in traditional Purim plays. In 1786 he joined Philip Astley in a troupe known as 'Astley's Jews', later becoming manager of the Royal Theatre. He worked with Astley from 1786-1814.

Alfred Rubens (1903-1998) was Chairman of the Jewish Museum (1958-1983) and an avid collector. In the 1920s, he started to collect prints and drawings of Jewish interest and eventually built up a collection of world importance. During his lifetime Rubens published several works which were based on his extensive collection. He first published the Anglo-Jewish Portraits (1935), followed by a similar work of wider scope, A Jewish Iconography (1954; rev. ed. 1981) which contained engravings of scenes of Jewish life and continental engraved portraits. Later came his History of Jewish Costume (1967).

First edition; 8vo, (19.5 x 11.7 cm); portrait frontispiece of Decastro, numerous plates throughout, 2 folding plates (birth certificate and circus scene), closed tear to circus plate facing p.44, some light offsetting, contemporary ink ownership inscription to title, scattered light foxing; contemporary red half morocco over marbled boards, gilt letting to spine, spine gilt in compartments, top edge gilt, front board detached but present, corners slightly rubbed, a fair copy. 280 pp.