The Poetical Works of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (London, 1869), Illustrations by Sir John Gilbert

Description

This beautiful leather bound edition of Longfellow’s Poetical Works dates back to his lifetime. Published in 1869 by Frederick Warne … more This beautiful leather bound edition of Longfellow’s Poetical Works dates back to his lifetime. Published in 1869 by Frederick Warne & Co., it predates the poet’s death by just 13 years. There is a lovely Preface by the English publisher referring to the popularity of the American poet “whose genius has naturalized him in our land.” Aside from its historical significance, this is a truly remarkable copy with marbled endpapers, full gilt page edges and raised bands on the spine. Beautifully embossed dark green, almost black, cover. Facing the title page is an engraving of the poet. Underneath there is a quill or fountain pen signature that is quite convincing. However, I believe it was published with an imprint of Longfellow’s signature. See photographs.

About the Author: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was one of the monumental cultural figures of nineteenth-century America. His work is well known for its lyric beauty and gentle moralizing. As the nation’s preeminent poet, his books became immensely popular both at home and abroad. less