1909 Rare First Edition - Undine by De La Motte Fouque, illustrated by Arthur Rackham.
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(Description)
Author: De La Motte Fouque. Arthur Rackham, illustrator.
Title: Undine. Adapted from the German by W.L. Courtney and illustrated by Arthur Rackham.
Publisher: London, William Heinemann, 1909. First Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 10" X 7.5".
Pages: viii-136 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good original publisher gilt decorated full-cloth binding (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing - as shown, nice bookplate of a previous owner on the first endpaper - as shown).
Illustrations: Complete with the 15 beautiful tipped-in color plates by Rackham with their tissue guards.
Estimate: (USD 400 - USD 500).
The book: "A rare and beautiful first edition of ""Undine"" by De La Motte Fouque, published in 1909 by William Heinemann, London. This edition is particularly notable for its 15 exquisite tipped-in color plates by Arthur Rackham, which beautifully capture the essence of this classic fairy tale. Rackham's illustrations add a magical quality to the story, making this edition highly sought after by collectors of illustrated books.
"Undine" is a romantic fairy tale about a water nymph named Undine who marries a knight named Huldbrand in order to gain a soul. The story delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the elemental forces of nature, and is celebrated for its poetic and ethereal quality. Rackham’s illustrations beautifully complement the narrative, adding depth and enchantment to the tale."
The author: Friedrich de la Motte Fouque (1777–1843) was a German writer of the Romantic era, best known for his fairy tales and fantasy novels. His most famous work, "Undine," has inspired numerous adaptations and remains a beloved classic in the genre of romantic literature.
The illustrator: Arthur Rackham (1867–1939) was an English book illustrator known for his unique style and pioneering work in the early development of color printing. His illustrations for "Undine" are characterized by their dreamlike quality and intricate detail, capturing the fantasy elements of the story with a masterful artistic touch. Rackham’s contribution to this edition of "Undine" is a perfect blend of art and narrative, making it a timeless piece of literature and illustration.