1893 Rare First UK Edition - The Brownies at Home Illustrated by Palmer Cox
Author: Palmer Cox.
Title: The Brownies at Home.
Publisher: London, T. Fisher Unwin, Paternoster Square, 1893. First UK Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 10" x 8.5".
Pages: xi-144 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good original publisher’s pictorial red cloth binding, beautifully stamped in black and gilt with humorous Brownie figures on cover and spine (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 scattered foxing to endpapers and occasional faint handling marks - as shown). Ownership marks absent. A pleasing copy.
Illustrations: Profusely illustrated throughout by Palmer Cox with his famous Brownie characters in humorous black-and-white drawings. All illustrations present and in excellent condition.
Estimate: (USD 300 – 350).
The book: A scarce first UK edition of The Brownies at Home (1893), the third volume in Palmer Cox’s wildly popular Brownies series. These mischievous little elves, drawn from Scottish folklore, became a cultural sensation in the late 19th century, appearing in books, magazines, toys, and even early advertising. In this installment, Cox’s rhyming text follows the Brownies through the seasons of the year, accompanied by his charming illustrations filled with detail and humor. This book captures the whimsical spirit that made the Brownies beloved by generations of children.
The author: Palmer Cox (1840–1924) was a Canadian illustrator and author best known as the creator of the Brownies. His delightful drawings and verses established him as one of the most influential figures in children’s literature of the late 19th century. Cox’s Brownies were not only popular in books but also became some of the first widely merchandised literary characters, paving the way for later children’s icons. His legacy lives on through these lively, mischievous creations.