- 661
Potter, Beatrix
Estimate
16,000 - 20,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Potter, Beatrix
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit, comprising:
- PAPER
i) [Privately printed for the Author, December 1901], first edition, first printing [limited to 250 copies], coloured frontispiece and 41 black and white illustrations by Beatrix Potter, original pictorial grey-green boards, flat spine, some light ink staining, occasional added watercolour to some illustrations, professional restoration to hinge and frontispiece re-inserted, ownership signature (dated "Xmas 1901" on inside of upper wrapper); ii) Frederick Warne and Co., [1902], first edition, first, second or third issue ("wept big tears" present on page 51), coloured frontispiece and 30 illustrations by Beatrix Potter, original brown boards, pictorial label on upper cover, holly leaf-pattern endpapers, crease to one leaf, joints split, ownership signature (dated 1908 on half-title), extremities slightly worn; both 16mo, collector's chemise and slipcase, both volumes rebacked preserving segments of original spine
The first issue of the privately printed edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit is one of the most important books in children's literature. Having experienced rejection from at least six publishers, Potter decided to issue the book herself in 1901 and ordered 250 copies . These were ready during December 1901 and were given away or sold (for a halfpenny). Success was so great that Potter ordered a further 200 copies in February 1902 (which were issued with a rounded, and therefore more durable, spine). The publishers Frederick Warne then expressed interest and commercial publication followed in October 1902. It is uncommon to see both privately printed and first commercial editions together.
The first issue of the privately printed edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit is one of the most important books in children's literature. Having experienced rejection from at least six publishers, Potter decided to issue the book herself in 1901 and ordered 250 copies . These were ready during December 1901 and were given away or sold (for a halfpenny). Success was so great that Potter ordered a further 200 copies in February 1902 (which were issued with a rounded, and therefore more durable, spine). The publishers Frederick Warne then expressed interest and commercial publication followed in October 1902. It is uncommon to see both privately printed and first commercial editions together.
Literature
Linder, pp.420-21
Condition
Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."