Shakespeare's Tragedy of Hamlet

Published by London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1910

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Seller: David Brass Rare Books, Inc., Calabasas, CA, U.S.A.David Brass Rare Books, Inc.

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Condition: Used

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Item description from seller

A Striking Arts and Crafts Interpretation of Hamlet One of 250 Signed Copies with Thirty Mounted Color Plates [SIMMONDS, W[illiam] G[eorge], illustrator]. SHAKESPEARE, [William]. Shakespeare's Tragedy of Hamlet. Illustrated by W. G. Simmonds. London: Hodder & Stoughton, [1910]. Limited to 250 numbered copies signed by the artist (this copy No. 5). Large quarto (11 x 8 3/4 inches; 280 x 222 mm.). xxvii, [1, blank], 164, [1, imprint], [1, blank] pp. Thirty mounted color plates, each with descriptive tissue guards. Title printed in red and black. Original vellum over boards, pictorially stamped and lettered in gilt on front cover and spine, top edge gilt, others uncut. Silk ties renewed, boards slightly bowed, as often with vellum - but overall a fine, bright copy. With an introduction, "The Story of Hamlet," by Arthur Quiller-Couch (pp. ix-xxvii). A particularly attractive example of this uncommon illustrated Hamlet, issued in a small signed limitation and distinguished by the highly individual work of William George Simmonds. Unlike the more familiar illustrated Shakespeare traditions of Rackham or Dulac, Simmonds brings a distinctly Arts and Crafts sensibility to the tragedy - his figures elongated and decorative, his palette rich yet restrained, and his compositions imbued with a quiet, almost medievalizing intensity. William George Simmonds (1876-1968), a versatile artist and craftsman, was closely associated with the Arts and Crafts movement. Working across media - including carving, metalwork, and puppetry - he developed a visual language that favors handcrafted detail and expressive line over theatrical spectacle, lending these illustrations a unique intimacy well suited to the psychological depth of Hamlet. The mounted plates, finely printed and carefully integrated with the text, elevate the volume beyond a conventional illustrated edition, while the vellum binding reinforces its position as a deluxe production of the Edwardian gift-book tradition. A scarce signed limitation, especially so in this condition - and a compelling alternative to the better-known illustrated Shakespeare canon.

Seller Inventory # 06562

Bibliographic details

Title
Shakespeare's Tragedy of Hamlet
Author
SIMMONDS, W.G.; Shakespeare, William
Publisher
London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1910
Signed
Signed
Seller catalogs
English Literature, Illustrated Books, Literature

David Brass Rare Books, Inc.

Calabasas, CA, U.S.A.

5-star seller

AbeBooks seller since February 1, 2007

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WHAT IS DAVID BRASS RARE BOOKS? David Brass Rare Books, Inc. specializes in buying and selling only the finest examples of English, American and European Literature, Children's Books, Color-Plate Books, Illustrated Books, Early Printed Books, Private Press Books, Fine Bindings, Original Artwork, Manuscripts, High Spot Modern First Editions, Rare Books and High Spots. HOW WE WORK We fully catalogue and photograph all of our items. We realize that every book has its own unique characteristics, so our catalogue descriptions give you a clear and precise explanation of condition, style, history, etc. Our photographs are of the highest digital quality, and will give you the clearest idea of what out items actually look like. We believe that this detailed information will provide a greater sense of confidence to the discerning collector who is considering a purchase. CONSIGNMENTS Consignments are welcome. If you want to use our name and contacts to find a home for your rare pieces, ask us about our terms. We offer full security and insurance while we house your item.

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First Editions, Illustrated Books, Fine Bindings & Sets, Private Press, Children's Books, Literature, Color Plate Books, Travel, Early Printed Books, Modern Firsts

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Seller's business information

David Brass Rare Books, Inc.

P.O. Box 9029
Calabasas, CA U.S.A. 91372