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1880s: The Complete Works of Henry Fielding, in 3 volumes, with Thomas Roscoe and George Cruikshank
$450.00This three-volume set of “The Complete Works of Henry Fielding” includes all of the author’s novels, plays, and miscellaneous writings, as well as a memoir of the author by Thomas Roscoe. The set is illustrated with twenty etchings of steel by George Cruikshank and was published by Bell and Daldy in London in the midto late 1800s. The volumes are bound in brown leather with five raised bands on the spine and gilt lettering on paper inserts (missing from volume III). The set is in very good condition, with marbled endpapers and some foxing on the endpapers. The edges are gilt on top, with deckles fore edges and untrimmed bottom edges. There is some rubbing and wear around the edges of the cover boards and spine folds, but no writing or other markings in the book.
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1933, H. G. Wells: World of William Glissold (2 volumes), Tono Bungay
$115.00The World of William Glissold and Tono Bungay are two books written by H.G. Wells and published in 1933. The World of William Glissold is a two-volume set, totaling 510 pages, while Tono Bungay is a standalone book with 254 pages. Both books are presented in red cloth hardcovers with gilt lettering on the spine and an impression of H.G. Wells’ signature on the front cover. The top edges are painted black, and while there is some foxing to the endpages and fore-edges, the volumes are clean and tightly bound with no markings.
The World of William Glissold follows the life of the titular character, a writer and philosopher, as he navigates the political and social landscape of the early 20th century. Tono Bungay, on the other hand, tells the story of a young man who invents a miracle cure-all and rises to fame and fortune, only to have his success unravel due to his own greed and deceit. These books are a must-read for any fan of H.G. Wells’ work and are in excellent condition, making them a great addition to any library.
$140.00 -
1967: Poems of Byron, Keats, and Shelley, selected and edited by Elliott Coleman, International Collectors Library
$180.00The 1967 edition of “Poems of Byron, Keats, and Shelley” is a collection of selected works from three of the most renowned poets of the Romantic era. Edited by Elliott Coleman, the volume includes complete shorter works and skillfully excerpted long poems, such as “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” “Prometheus Unbound,” and “To a Skylark.” The book is part of “The World’s Great Poetry” series of the International Collectors Library and is bound in a soft tan Marie Antoinette replica binding with 24K gold decoration, top edges coated with real gold, and a matching ribbon marker.
The original binding of the volume, on which this replica was based, encased a copy of the Iliad bound by Derome the Younger for Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France. The design of Derome’s binding was adapted by American artist Rafael Palacios for this Collectors Library volume, retaining much of the decoration intact. The book is a collectible item, unopened and unread, and includes the original inlay from ICL with the presentation of the work and the Marie Antoinette binding.
$210.00 -
1969: Doctor Zhivago, by Boris Pasternak, International Collectors Library
$135.00Doctor Zhivago is a classic Russian novel by Boris Pasternak set during the tumultuous times of 1903 to 1943 in Russia. The novel follows the life of Dr. Zhivago as he tries to maintain his humanity and spiritual integrity in a society that is divided by class, family, love, and ultimately, man’s own inner struggles. Pasternak’s portrayal of the social and moral dilemma faced by the characters is both convincing and brilliant.
This edition of Doctor Zhivago is part of the Classical Russian Novels series of the International Collectors Library. The book is beautifully bound in wine red and stamped with handsome gilt foil, replicating the design found on a rare old volume in the library of Czar Alexander II. The binding was executed by the distinguished American artist Rafael Palacios and includes a matching ribbon marker. This collectible edition is new and unread, with only a minor bent on the top cover corner. The deckled fore-edges and original inlay from ICL with presentation of the work and its binding make this edition a must-have for any collector of classic literature.
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1969: Ivanhoe, by Sir Walter Scott, International Collectors Library
$115.00Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott is a historical novel that has become a classic in English literature. The book is set in the 12th century and tells the story of the eponymous hero, a Saxon knight who is caught up in the conflict between the Normans and the Saxons. Ivanhoe is in love with Lady Rowena, but she is betrothed to another man. Meanwhile, the evil Prince John is plotting to take the throne from his brother, King Richard the Lionheart. Ivanhoe must use his courage and wit to fight against Prince John and his allies, including the cruel Templar knight, Brian de Bois-Guilbert. Along the way, Ivanhoe meets a cast of memorable characters, including the wise Jewish moneylender, Isaac of York, and the beautiful and brave Rebecca, who becomes Ivanhoe’s ally and love interest.
This edition of Ivanhoe is a collectible item from the International Collectors Library, with a beautiful binding designed by French master bookbinder Emile Mercier and recreated by contemporary American designer Rafael Palacios. The book has deckled fore-edges and a matching ribbon marker. The replica edition closely follows the conception of Mercier’s design, with a slate blue cover and genuine gold filigree on the front and spine. This edition is new, unopened, and unread, making it a perfect addition to any collector’s library.
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1980s set of 3: H.G. Wells Science Fiction Treasury, Works of Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain – Chatham River Press
$245.00This set of three publications by Chatham River Press includes the works of three classic authors: Edgar Allan Poe, H.G. Wells, and Mark Twain. The Edgar Allan Poe volume contains all of his short stories, a complete novel, and several poems, while the H.G. Wells volume features six of his most famous science fiction works. The Mark Twain volume includes some of his most beloved novels, such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. All three volumes are bound in red leatherette with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine, and all page edges are gilt. Despite slight fading due to age, the volumes are in excellent condition and appear unread, making them a beautiful collectible set that would make a wonderful gift.
This set is part of the Greenwich Unabridged Library Classics Series and is a great addition to any classic literature collection.
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Early 1900s: The Pilgrim’s Progress, by John Bunyan – Religious Tract Society
$75.00This book is a reprint of the classic religious allegory, The Pilgrim’s Progress, written by John Bunyan in the 17th century. The story follows the journey of Christian, a man who sets out from his hometown, the City of Destruction, to reach the Celestial City. Along the way, he faces various obstacles and temptations, but ultimately perseveres with the help of fellow pilgrims and divine intervention. The book is presented in the form of a dream, and is meant to convey spiritual truths and lessons to the reader.
This particular edition of The Pilgrim’s Progress was published by The Religious Tract Society in London, and features eight original illustrations by Harold Copping. The book is housed in a red cloth hardcover with some wear and staining on the front and back cover, and a prize plate on the inside opposite cover dated April 10th, 1931. Despite its age, the book is well bound and has no markings or writing inside.
$95.00 -
Pre-1920s: Poems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
$235.00Poems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox is a collection of poems by American poet Ella Wheeler Wilcox. The book was published by Gay and Hancock, Limited in London and contains 413 pages. Although the book is undated, there is an ink inscription on the half title page dated to Jan 23, 1920. The volume is a softcover in burgundy leather with gilt lettering on the cover and spine. There is some moderate wear consistent with age, including a small tear on the bottom of the spine. The cover is separating from the book body due to a tear in the end papers, but this is mendable. The body of the book is clean, well-bound, and in very good condition. All page edges are gilt. This book is a beautiful antique volume and would make a perfect gift for a poetry lover.
Ella Wheeler Wilcox was a popular American poet in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for her optimistic and inspirational poems. This collection of her work includes some of her most famous poems, such as “Solitude” and “Laugh, and the World Laughs With You.” The book is a testament to the enduring popularity of Wilcox’s work, as well as a glimpse into the world of poetry in the early 20th century. Poems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox is a fascinating and beautiful volume that would make a great addition to any poetry lover’s collection.
$295.00 -
1942 First Edition: The Life of Francis Drake, by A. E. W. Mason
$50.00The Life of Francis Drake, written by A. E. W. Mason and published in 1942, is a historical account of the life and voyages of the famous English explorer. The book details Drake’s early life as a sailor, his involvement in the slave trade, his circumnavigation of the globe, and his role in defeating the Spanish Armada. Mason’s writing style is engaging and informative, providing readers with a vivid portrait of Drake’s adventures and the historical context in which they occurred. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of England, the Age of Exploration, or the life of Francis Drake.
The vintage edition of The Life of Francis Drake is a beautiful volume, with a blue hardcover and intricate green and gilt decoration on the spine. While the book shows some signs of wear due to age, including fading to the pages and wear around the edges and corners, it remains a treasured piece of history.
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1959: The Armada, by Garrett Mattingly – History of the attempt of the Spanish Armada to invade England in 1588
$55.00The Armada by Garrett Mattingly is a comprehensive account of the Spanish Armada’s attempt to invade England in 1588. Mattingly, a historian and professor at Columbia University, provides a detailed and engaging narrative of the events leading up to the invasion, the battles that ensued, and the aftermath of the failed mission. The book covers not only the military and political aspects of the conflict, but also the cultural and social context of the time, making it a rich and informative read for history enthusiasts.
The hardcover edition of The Armada features a striking red cover with ornamental lettering and is well-preserved despite its age. The book is well-bound and free of any markings or writing, making it a valuable addition to any history lover’s collection. Mattingly’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making the complex historical events easy to follow and understand.
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1940 First Edition: Oliver Wiswell, by Kenneth Roberts
$90.00Oliver Wiswell is a historical novel written by Kenneth Roberts and published in 1940. The book tells the story of Oliver Wiswell, a young man from Massachusetts who joins the British army during the American Revolution. As the war progresses, Wiswell becomes disillusioned with the British cause and begins to sympathize with the American rebels. He eventually defects to the American side and becomes a spy for the Continental Army.
The novel is known for its detailed portrayal of the American Revolution from the perspective of a loyalist. Roberts, who was known for his meticulous research, used primary sources to create a historically accurate account of the war. The book was well-received upon its release and was praised for its vivid characters and realistic depiction of the era. Today, Oliver Wiswell is considered a classic of historical fiction and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the American Revolution.
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1917 Set of 5: Copp Clarke Literature Series Midsummer’s Night Dream, The Tempest, Nine Poems, Four Poems, Goldsmith & Longfellow
$45.00This is a set of 5 volumes from The Copp Clarke Literature Series, edited by O.J. Stevenson, M.A., D. Paed. The first volume, “Four Poems,” includes works by Goldsmith, Tennyson, Wordsworth, and Gray. There are written ink and pencil annotations throughout the book and back inside cover. The second volume, “Selections from Goldsmith and Longfellow,” is signed by Karen Dempsey and Caldwater P School on the insider front cover. The third and fourth volumes are both from the Canadian School Shakespeare series, with “The Tempest” and “A Midsummer-night’s Dream” respectively. The former is almost as good as new, while the latter has some pencil underlining and annotations throughout. Both volumes are signed by previous owners on the inside front cover. The last volume, “Nine Poems from Goldsmith, Browning, Tennyson, Arnold,” is heavily annotated throughout and has minor dog bite markings. It is signed by several people on the inside front cover, and contains several added sheets of class notes and tests by Harold Dempsey and Myrtle Olafson.
$75.00 -
1971 First Edition: Shem, Ham & Japheth Inc, by Felix Topolski
$90.00Shem, Ham & Japheth Inc is a collection of caricatures and cartoons by Felix Topolski, first published in 1971. The book features a variety of satirical illustrations that comment on contemporary political and social issues. The title refers to the three sons of Noah in the Bible, and the cartoons in the book often explore themes of race, religion, and power dynamics.
This first edition of Shem, Ham & Japheth Inc is a beautifully preserved hardcover volume, complete with its original dust jacket. The book is a fascinating artifact of its time, capturing the political and cultural climate of the early 1970s through Topolski’s incisive and often humorous illustrations.
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Of Human Bondage, by W. Somerset Maugham, Twentieth Century Classics Collectible Edition
$275.00Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham is a classic novel that follows the life of Philip Carey, a young man who struggles to find his place in the world. The story begins with Philip as a young boy who is orphaned and sent to live with his strict and unloving uncle. As he grows up, Philip becomes interested in art and literature, but his uncle insists that he become a doctor. Philip agrees, but finds that he has no passion for medicine and struggles to succeed in his studies.
Throughout the novel, Philip experiences love, loss, and disappointment as he tries to find his way in life. He falls in love with a woman named Mildred, who treats him poorly and ultimately leaves him for another man. He also struggles with his own physical limitations, as he is born with a clubfoot that causes him pain and embarrassment. Of Human Bondage is a powerful exploration of the human condition and the struggles that we all face in our quest for happiness and fulfillment.
This collectible edition of Of Human Bondage is a beautiful green leatherette hardcover volume with gilt ornamentation on the cover and spine. Although there is slight rubbing along the length of the spine fold and minor overall fading of pages due to age, the book is almost as good as new with no writing or markings. This edition is a wonderful addition to any collection and is sure to be treasured by fans of classic literature.
$350.00 -
1982: Island of Love, by Yuri Nagibin
$45.00Island of Love by Yuri Nagibin is a Russian novel published by Progress Publishers in Moscow. The book is a romantic tale that takes place on a remote island in the Black Sea during World War II. The story follows a young soldier named Alyosha who is sent to the island to guard a military base. While there, he meets a beautiful young woman named Nadya and they fall in love. However, their relationship is complicated by the war and the fact that Nadya is engaged to another man. The novel explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice as Alyosha and Nadya navigate their feelings for each other in the midst of a tumultuous time.
The book is beautifully written and filled with vivid descriptions of the island and its inhabitants. The characters are well-developed and the reader is drawn into their world, feeling their joys and sorrows as they struggle to make sense of their feelings and the world around them.
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1959: Adelaide, by Jean Thomas Ungerer
$45.00Adelaide is a children’s illustrated book written by Jean Thomas Ungerer. The story is set in 1959, in Adelaide, and follows the adventures of a young girl named Adelaide. The book is a large format hardcover volume with an illustrated cover. Although the cover shows some wear and foxing, the body of the book is intact and clean, with no markings or writing.
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1932: The Path of the King, by John Buchan
$35.00The Path of the King by John Buchan is a historical fiction novel set in the 6th century, following the story of a young man named Colgrim who rises to power and becomes a king. The novel explores themes of leadership, loyalty, and sacrifice as Colgrim navigates the treacherous political landscape of his time. Along the way, he encounters a cast of memorable characters, including a wise old monk and a fierce warrior princess.
This vintage edition of the book is a beautiful miniature hardcover volume, complete with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. Despite some wear and tear, it remains in good condition and would make a wonderful addition to any book collection.
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1948: The Jungle Books, by Rudyard Kipling, vol. I, Illustrated by Aldren Watson
$45.00The Jungle Books, volume I, by Rudyard Kipling is a classic piece of children’s literature that has been enjoyed for generations. This vintage edition, published in 1948 by Doubleday & Company, Inc., features beautiful illustrations by Aldren Watson and an introduction by Nelson Doubleday. The hardcover volume is in near fine condition, with only slight signs of wear on the dust jacket and a mended spine. The book is tightly bound and free of any owner marks or writing.
The Jungle Books tells the story of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised by wolves in the jungle. Along the way, he meets a variety of animal characters, including Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, who help him navigate the dangers of the jungle and learn important life lessons. The book is a timeless classic that teaches children about the importance of friendship, loyalty, and bravery.
$65.00 -
1955: The Adventures of Pinocchio, by Carlo Collodi, illustrated by Roberta MacDonald
$45.00The Adventures of Pinocchio is a classic children’s book written by Carlo Collodi and illustrated by Roberta MacDonald. The story follows the adventures of a wooden puppet named Pinocchio who dreams of becoming a real boy. Along the way, Pinocchio encounters a host of characters, including a talking cricket, a sly fox, and a kind fairy. However, his mischievous nature and tendency to tell lies often land him in trouble.
This vintage edition of the book, published in 1955, features beautiful illustrations by MacDonald and is in near fine condition, with only moderate wear to the dust jacket.
$65.00 -
1975: A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, The John Player Special Collection
$30.00A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, is a classic novel set during World War I. The story follows an American ambulance driver named Frederic Henry, who falls in love with a British nurse named Catherine Barkley. As the war rages on, Frederic and Catherine struggle to maintain their relationship amidst the chaos and destruction around them. The novel explores themes of love, war, and the human condition, and is considered one of Hemingway’s greatest works.
The John Player Special Collection edition of A Farewell to Arms, published in 1975, features a black hardcover volume with silver lettering on the cover and spine. The book is in very good condition, with only slight wear on the dustjacket around the edges and corners. The pages have yellowed over time, but the volume is tightly bound and contains no writing or markings.