1908 Rare First Edition - The Magic Casement. An Anthology of Fairy Poetry.
(Description)
Author: Selected and arranged with introduction and notes by Alfred Noyes. Stephen Reid, illustrator.
Title: The Magic Casement. An Anthology of Fairy Poetry.
Publisher: London, Chapman & Hall, Ltd., 1908. First Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8" X 6".
Pages: xx-390 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good original red full-cloth binding with intricate gilt-stamped Art Nouveau design on the front cover and spine, featuring an ethereal fairy figure (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. A rare find in such a nice condition!
Content: Very good content (bright, tight, and clean, rare light foxing or staining - as shown).
Illustrations: Illustrated throughout by Stephen Reid, including a beautifully illustrated title page and several full-page illustrations. Reid's work complements the poetic theme of the book, capturing the mystical and fantastical spirit of the faery poems.
The book: The First Edition of Magic Casement is a collection of faery-themed poetry, offering glimpses of the fantastical world "beyond the casement." It includes works by luminaries such as William Shakespeare, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Rudyard Kipling, and W. B. Yeats, curated and introduced by Alfred Noyes. Noyes' selection spans both ancient and modern interpretations of faery life, celebrating the literary tradition of fairy poetry. The book is enhanced by Stephen Reid’s captivating illustrations, which vividly bring to life the magical and mysterious elements of the poetry.
The author: Alfred Noyes (1880–1958) was a renowned English poet, known for his romantic and narrative style. His most famous work, The Highwayman, established him as a major literary figure of the early 20th century.
The illustrator: Stephen Reid (1873–1948) was a British illustrator known for his detailed and imaginative work in children's books and historical illustrations. His artistic style is well-suited for capturing the otherworldly and whimsical aspects of fairy tales and poetry.