1886 Rare First Edition - The Queen of the Pirate Isle with an autograph letter signed by Kate Greenaway.
(Description)
Author: Bret Harte. Kate Greenaway, illustrator.
Title: The Queen of the Pirate Isle.
Publisher: London, Chatto & Windus, 1886. First UK edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 9" X 6.5".
Pages:58 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good full-cloth binding bound in the original publisher's beige cloth with an illustrated cover featuring three children and a pirate flag. The spine has the title and author in gilt. (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges are gilt.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, rare light foxing or staining - as shown)
Illustrations: Illustrated by Kate Greenaway, this edition includes numerous color plates. Greenaway's illustrations are charming and capture the whimsical nature of Harte's story perfectly.
Estimate: (With the autograph letter signed by Kate Greenaway, USD 1250 - USD 1500).
The autograph letter: Loosely inserted is a rare original autograph letter signed by Kate Greenaway, dated 2 April 1889. In the letter, Greenaway writes to booksellers Palmer & Howe of Manchester, apparently enclosing the original drawings for Queen of the Pirate Isle. She mentions her thoughts on the book's production and the quality of the drawings, noting, I think the getting up of the book very nice, but of course, the drawings would look far better and cleaner if they were surrounded by raised mounts.
The book: The Queen of the Pirate Isle by Bret Harte is a delightful children's story, first published in 1886. This first UK edition, illustrated by the renowned Kate Greenaway, offers a visual treat that complements Harte's engaging narrative. The inclusion of Greenaway's autograph letter adds significant historical and collectible value to this edition.
The author: Bret Harte (1836-1902) was an American author and poet, best known for his short stories depicting the American West. His works were highly popular in the late 19th century, and he played a significant role in shaping the Western genre in literature.
The illustrator: Kate Greenaway (1846-1901) was a celebrated English children's book illustrator and writer. Her work is characterized by its delicate and detailed illustrations, often depicting children in idyllic, rural settings. Greenaway's illustrations have left a lasting impact on children's literature, and her books are highly prized by collectors.