1908 Rare First Edition - The Book of Princes and Princesses by Mrs. Lang
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Author: Mrs. Lang. Edited by Andrew Lang. Illustrated by Henry Justice Ford.
Title: The Book of Princes and Princesses.
Publisher: London, Longmans, Green, and Co., 1908. First Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7.5 x 5 inches.
Pages: xix-361 pages + publisher's catalog.
Binding: Attractive and very good original publisher's blue pictorial cloth binding, richly gilt with sword and crown design on spine and elaborate gilt-stamped cover art of a fairy crowning a prince and princess (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 foxing or staining - as shown).
Illustrations: Complete with 8 colour plates and numerous full-page black-and-white illustrations by H.J. Ford.
Estimate: (USD 200–350).
The book: A beautifully illustrated Edwardian first edition of The Book of Princes and Princesses, a historical and romantic collection of true stories about notable royal children throughout European history. Each tale is designed to be both entertaining and educational, offering glimpses into the early lives and virtues—or trials—of rulers like Napoleon, the Princess Jeanne, and the young Elizabeth I. The collaboration between Mrs. Lang and H.J. Ford results in a work that merges literary grace with visual splendor. This 1908 edition is especially sought after for its elaborate gilt cover and complete suite of plates.
The author: Mrs. Lang (Leonora Blanche Lang) was an accomplished writer and frequent collaborator with her husband, Andrew Lang. While her husband is better known for editing the famous "Fairy Book" series, Mrs. Lang was responsible for much of the actual writing, especially of volumes intended for young readers. Her talent lies in conveying historical and mythological narratives with clarity and charm.
The illustrator: Henry Justice Ford (1860–1941) was one of the most celebrated illustrators of the late Victorian and Edwardian era, best known for his work on Andrew Lang’s Fairy Books. His finely wrought pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations brought countless fairy tales and historical stories to life, combining Pre-Raphaelite elegance with narrative vigor. His illustrations in this volume are some of his most refined and engaging.