1881 Rare Book - The Bells by Edgar Allan Poe. Illustrated.

Author: Edgar Allan Poe. Illustrated by Darley, McCutcheon, Fredericks, Perkins, King, Riordan, and Northam.
Title: The Bells.
Publisher: Philadelphia, Porter & Coates, 1881.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8" x 7".
Pages: Unpaginated.
Binding: Attractive and very good original gilt-decorated mustard cloth binding, with intricate embossed designs featuring an angel, bells, and floral motifs on the front cover and spine (hinges fine, slight wear and rubbing to corners - as shown). Protected with a removable mylar cover. All edges gilt.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, rare light foxing - as shown, beautiful inscription of a previous owner dated May 1884 on the front endpaper - as shown).
Illustrations: Richly illustrated with exquisite engravings by notable artists such as Darley, McCutcheon, and Fredericks, vividly bringing Poe's celebrated poem to life. Includes a detailed illustrated title page and additional artistic headpieces and vignettes. (Complete).

Estimate: (USD 300 - USD 400).

The book:
This beautiful edition of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Bells" is a visual and literary treasure. Published by Porter & Coates in 1881, the book pairs Poe's evocative and rhythmic poem with exquisite illustrations by prominent 19th-century artists. "The Bells" is a masterful exploration of sound and emotion, reflecting the joys, fears, and sorrows of life through the metaphor of ringing bells. The finely detailed engravings add depth and dimension to the text, creating a harmonious blend of word and image.

The author:
Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) is one of America's most celebrated literary figures, renowned for his contributions to Gothic fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. His works, often characterized by themes of melancholy and the macabre, have left an indelible mark on literature. "The Bells" is among Poe's most memorable poems, celebrated for its musicality and emotional resonance.

The illustrators:
This edition showcases the artistic talents of a group of celebrated 19th-century illustrators, including Darley, McCutcheon, and Fredericks. Their engravings capture the atmospheric and emotional depth of Poe's poem, enhancing its timeless appeal. The intricate artwork and masterful engraving make this book a prized addition to any collection of fine illustrated literature.