Tales from Shakespeare | 1909, first trade edition, illustrated by Arthur Rackham

 Tales from Shakespeare was initially illustrated by Arthur Rackham for the 1899 series "The Temple Classics For Young People." This 1909 trade edition features extra illustrations and is considered the most coveted version of the collection. Rackham is highly revered as the foremost book illustrator during the Victorian era, also known as the Golden Age of Book Illustration. As expected, first editions, such as this one, were produced as deluxe gift books with unparalleled attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Description and Condition:

First trade edition, first impression. 8vo Publisher's green cloth, stamped in gold, near fine with minor edge-wear. Internally fresh with 13 full-page colour illustrations and numerous illustrations in black and white. Small previous ownership inscription to ffep. A lovely example of a most collectible and popular title.

Published by J. M. Dent & Co. and E. P. Dutton & Co, London and New York, 1909