The Book of El-Daoud (Association copy, inscribed by Edith M. Pretty, November 1934)

Language: English

Published by H. B. Skinner & Co, London, 1931

  • First Edition
  • Hardcover
  • Used
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Seller: Tom Heywood Books, Redditch, Worcs, United KingdomTom Heywood Books

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AbeBooks seller since March 30, 2023

Hardcover

Condition: Used - Good

£ 395.00

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Item description from seller

A rare and fascinating association copy of The Book of El-Daoud: The Father King, Which Is the Gospel of Simplicity Given Unto His Own, published in London by H. B. Skinner & Co. in 1931. Of particular interest is the inscription and date (November 1934) by Edith M. Pretty (1883–1942), the remarkable English landowner whose name is forever associated with the discovery of the Anglo-Saxon ship burial at Sutton Hoo. The book concerns spiritual revelation and mediumship, presenting itself as a work dictated through an unusual spiritual experience. Its association with Edith Pretty is especially intriguing, offering a tangible connection between one of Britain's most celebrated archaeological discoveries and the contemporary world of mysticism and spiritualism. Edith Pretty was responsible for initiating the excavations at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk in 1938–39, which uncovered one of the most extraordinary archaeological finds in British history. The Anglo-Saxon ship burial transformed understanding of early medieval England. Pretty subsequently donated the treasure to the British Museum, including the celebrated Sutton Hoo helmet, making an act of exceptional public generosity. Her role in the discovery secured her an enduring place in British history. This copy has a particular biographical significance. Edith Pretty's interest in spiritualism is often discussed in connection with the period following the death of her husband, Frank, in December 1934. However, the inscription and date in this volume indicate that she owned the book in November 1934, suggesting that her interest in mystical or spiritual subjects were already established before his death (and quite possibly because of his illness). It provides an intriguing piece of evidence for anyone interested in understanding the less familiar aspects of Pretty's life and the possible influences on her later activities at Sutton Hoo. An unusual and potentially important association copy, combining a scarce work of spiritual interest with a direct connection to a figure of major historical significance. At the time of listing, no other inscribed copies by Edith Pretty could be located for sale. Condition: The binding appears sound. The front board is clean, with the gilt decoration remaining particularly clear. The spine is sun-faded, with some nibbling to the head and tail, although this does not appear to affect the structural integrity of the binding. There is minor crumpling to the corners. The pages are generally very good, clean and bright, with foxing primarily to the front pastedown and front free endpaper. Apart from Edith Pretty's inscription and date, there are no other notes or markings. No other books inscribed by Pretty could be located for sale at time of writing. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. All images show the actual book offered for sale; we do not use stock photographs. Additional photographs are available on request, and we are always happy to answer questions. All images are original and copyrighted © Tom Heywood Books and may not be reproduced without permission.…

Seller Inventory # 3146

Bibliographic details

Title
The Book of El-Daoud (Association copy, inscribed by Edith M. Pretty, November 1934)
Author
Anonymous
Publisher
H. B. Skinner & Co, London
Publication year
1931
Condition
Good
Binding
Hardcover
Language
English
Edition
1st Edition
Seller catalogs
Esoteric, Folklore Myths and Legends, History, Occult

Tom Heywood Books

Redditch, Worcs, United Kingdom

5-star seller

AbeBooks seller since March 30, 2023

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Store description

We specialise in interesting, high quality second-hand and antiquarian non-fiction books primarily in the areas of mystery, the unexplained and the unusual. Among our main categories are: cryptozoology; paranormal; occult; classic UFO books; folklore; archaeological and ancient civilisation mysteries; fakes and forgeries; historical mysteries; exploration, maritime & aviation mysteries; mysterious places; unexplained phenomena. We show photos of the actual copies for sale rather than use stock pictures. We sell with passion, and post with care.…

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Mostly hardback first editions in the areas mentioned in our store description

Seller's business information

Tom Heywood Books

United Kingdom