- 251
Potter, Beatrix
Estimate
60,000 - 80,000 USD
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Description
- Potter, Beatrix
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit. [London: Strangeways and Sons for the Author, 1901]
- paper
16mo (5 5/16 x 4 1/8 in.; 135 x 105 mm). Color frontispiece and 41 black and white illustrations by Beatrix Potter. Original pictorial gray-green boards, flat spine. In a brown half-morocco slipcase.
Literature
Linder, p. 420; Quinby 1; V & A 1622-1623; Pierpont Morgan, Early Children's Books 220
Condition
mint
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
First edition, first issue (one of 250 copies) of one of the most important books in children's literature, in extremely fine condition.
Having experienced rejection from at least six publishers, Beatrix Potter decided to issue The Tale of Peter Rabbit herself in 1901 and ordered 250 copies. These were finished by 16 December 1901 and were given away or sold. Success was so great that Potter ordered a further 200 copies in February 1902 (which were issued with a rounded, more durable spine). The publishers Frederick Warne then expressed an interest and commercial publication followed in October 1902.