1877 Rare Book - The Skeleton in Armor, Norse Warrior Adventures by Longfellow

Author: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Illustrated by L.S. Ipsen, E.A. Abbey, and Mary A. Hallock.
Title: The Skeleton in Armor.
Publisher: Boston, James R. Osgood & Co., 1877. First illustrated edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 9.5 x 7 inches.
Pages: Unpaginated.
Binding: Attractive and very good finely bound binding in richly embossed brown morocco leather, featuring elaborate blind-stamped panels of interlacing Celtic knotwork and stylized floral medallions. Raised bands with fleur-de-lis motifs on the spine, gilt title “Skeleton in Armor” and publisher name “Osgood.” (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt. 
Content: Very good content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing or staining mainly on one page due to now removed paper clip offsetting - as shown). 
Illustrations: Lavishly illustrated throughout with wood engravings by A.V.S. Anthony, after original designs by L.S. Ipsen (illuminated title-page), E.A. Abbey (The Round Tower), and multiple dramatic and romantic illustrations by Mary A. Hallock. The eighteen images are finely engraved and printed, and beautifully complement the romantic, heroic tone of the poem.

The book: This deluxe 1877 edition of The Skeleton in Armor is a striking example of Victorian book artistry, pairing Longfellow’s romantic ballad with intricate, medieval-inspired illustrations and lavish book design. The poem, first published in 1841, imagines a Norse warrior recounting his adventures in the New World, blending themes of exploration, love, and death. This edition is particularly notable for its illuminated and illustrated pages, many bordered with ornate Celtic and Viking-inspired motifs. Prepared under the supervision of A.V.S. Anthony, a renowned engraver, this publication reflects the 19th-century fascination with romantic medievalism and the poet’s enduring popularity.

The author: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882) was one of the most celebrated American poets of the 19th century. Known for works such as The Song of Hiawatha, Evangeline, and Paul Revere’s Ride, Longfellow was praised for his lyrical style, accessible language, and deep moral and historical sensibilities. The Skeleton in Armor demonstrates his interest in Norse mythology and transatlantic narratives, bridging Old World legends with American landscapes.

The illustrators:

• L.S. Ipsen, a skilled designer, contributed the illuminated title-page rich in Norse motifs, setting the tone for the book’s aesthetic.

• E.A. Abbey, an acclaimed American illustrator known for his historical and literary subjects, provided a dramatic scene of The Round Tower.

• Mary A. Hallock, a respected illustrator and author, rendered multiple interior scenes with expressive characters and careful attention to costume and setting, enhancing the poem’s emotional and narrative depth.