Heads and Tales [Snake or Reptile Skin Binding].

Hoffman, Malvina Cornell (American sculptor; 1885-1966).

Published by Charles Scribner's Sons, New York, 1936. Signed presentation copy to the creator of this binding (Helen Wormser) in 1943.

About this Item

Signed presentation copy to the creator of this binding (Helen Wormser) in 1943. 6 ¾ in. x 9 ½ in. 416 pp. Numerous black & white photo illustrations (those of the bronzes & marbles by Peter Juley & De Witt Ward). Signed presentation copy with ink inscription on half title: "To Helen Wormser. With appreciation for this beautiful binding, and with best wishes to a fellow artist Malvina Hoffman 1943" & small bird & crescent moon sketch under signature. Bound in full wide grain white & gray snake ("Asian python"?) or other unidentified lizard or reptile skin with whitish underbelly at outer fore edges of covers. Two raised bands 1 ¼ " from top & bottom of spine & inlaid title in black leather running in simple stepped pattern down spine: Heads and Tales & a larger inlaid block lettered title in dark green/black leather on front cover & inlaid author's name at bottom of front cover. ¾ " turn-ins on inner covers framing a dark green/black morocco leather panel (this has left a tan rectangular mark on gray endpapers). All edges gilt; preserved in a fleece lined, gray cloth covered slipcase (shows minor rubbing to corners) Original endpaper featuring the "Unity of Mankind 5' needlepoint tapestry map in color by Ginevra King, showing the world tour for the Field Museum and presented to Miss Hoffman on her return." bound in at end. Book is in fine condition. Chronicles Malvina Hoffman's travels undertaken for the Field Museum (Hall of Man) 1931-32. This is a one of a kind copy, first bound by Helen Wormser & given to Hoffman (by the Field Museum? or Wormser?) the snake/reptile skin could have been purchased by Hoffman while on her Asian travels. The book was later (1943) given by Hoffman to the binder (Wormser) with the signed presentation inscription quoted above. Quite an intriguing story here, but these are as many pieced together (& guessed) details as we have. Seller Inventory # ABE-72856007

Bibliographic Details

Title: Heads and Tales [Snake or Reptile Skin ...

Publisher: Charles Scribner's Sons, New York, 1936. Signed presentation copy to the creator of this binding (Helen Wormser) in 1943.

Binding: Soft cover

Condition: Fine

Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included

Signed: Signed by Author(s)

Edition: 1st Edition