1890 Rare Book - The Life and Adventures of Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
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Author: Daniel Defoe.
Title: The Life and Adventures of Robinson Crusoe.
Publisher: London and New York, Frederick Warne and Co., no date (1890).
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7.5" x 5.25".
Pages: xv-389 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good original publisher’s elaborately decorated red cloth binding, featuring gilt titles and dramatic black-stamped illustrations to front board and spine, with a striking scene of tribal dancers on the rear board (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown, spine slightly darkened - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, some light foxing and staining - as shown).
Illustrations: Complete with numerous black-and-white illustrations throughout and 3 rich chromolithographic plates, including a vivid frontispiece of Crusoe looking out to sea. The engravings, including scenes of shipwrecks and island life, capture the drama and solitude of Crusoe’s journey.
Estimate: (USD 150–200).
The book: A beautiful Victorian-era edition of Daniel Defoe’s immortal tale, Robinson Crusoe, here presented with both textual enhancements (introduction and glossary) and vibrant illustrations that enrich the reader’s experience. This edition, issued by Frederick Warne, brings 19th-century publishing charm to one of the most influential adventure novels of all time. The color plates and expressive wood engravings offer a visual narrative that complements Defoe's enduring prose.
The author: Daniel Defoe (c. 1660–1731) was an English trader, writer, and spy, best remembered for Robinson Crusoe (1719), often cited as the first English novel. Defoe's works straddle fiction and journalism, capturing the spirit of adventure and individualism. Robinson Crusoe, inspired by real-life castaway Alexander Selkirk, remains one of the most published books in history.
The illustrators: Although uncredited in this edition, several of the illustrations bear the signature of Ernest Griset (1844–1907), a French-born illustrator known for his humorous and dramatic renderings. His ability to imbue animals and characters with personality made him a favored artist for Victorian publishers. The bold use of chromolithography further reflects the period’s dedication to aesthetic book production.