1897 Rare First Edition - The Children by Alice Meynell.

(Description)

Author: Alice Meynell.
Title: The Children.
Publisher: London & New York, John Lane, The Bodley Head, 1897. First Edition.
Language: Text in English.  
Size: 7" X 5".
Pages: 96 pages + illustrated publisher's catalog.
Binding: Attractive and very good original blue cloth with elaborate gilt-stamped decoration and lettering to the front cover and spine. The cover illustration and intricate floral motifs designed by Charles Robinson, are beautifully executed, reflecting the book's theme of innocence and nature. (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. 
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, some light foxing or staining - as shown, nice ex-libris of Anthony Tuke  (served as chairman of Barclays Bank from 1951 to 1962) and Edna Tuke - as shown, signed by the publisher, John Lane, on the first endpaper - as shown).
Illustrations: Contains a decorative title page illustration in Art Nouveau style, consistent with the period's aesthetic, emphasizing grace and elegance. The rear of the book features nice illustrated advertisements for contemporary children's literature, adding historical interest.

The book: This First Edition of The Children by Alice Meynell is a poetic and evocative exploration of childhood and its connections to nature and imagination. Meynell's prose is both lyrical and reflective, celebrating the joy and wonder of youthful innocence while offering deeper philosophical insights. The gilt-stamped decorative binding makes this an appealing addition for collectors of Victorian and Edwardian literature or Art Nouveau bindings.

The author: Alice Meynell (1847–1922) was an acclaimed English poet, essayist, and suffragist. Known for her delicate yet profound literary style, she was a significant figure in the late Victorian and Edwardian literary scene. Meynell's works often explored themes of spirituality, nature, and human emotion.