- 623
Shaw, George Bernard
Estimate
2,500 - 3,500 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Shaw, George Bernard
- Saint Joan: A Chronicle Play. London: Constable and Company, 1924
- paper
8vo, proof copy marked “rough proof – unpublished”, Sybil Thorndike’s copy also inscribed by the author, original wrappers, morocco pull-off case, some fraying, lower cover lacking, spine worn
Provenance
Sybil Thorndike (see note); Lewis Casson (Thorndike's husband), stamp on cover; T.J. Keely (see note)
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."
Catalogue Note
A wonderful theatrical association copy. Shaw had seen Thorndike in The Cenci in 1922 and supposedly exclaimed “I have found my Joan”. Although he had the original idea for the play as early as 1913, he did not start work on until 1923, and wrote the part expressly for Thorndike.
The actor’s ownership inscription on the half-title is forthright: “This is Sybil Thorndike’s book & anyone who takes it is a liar & a thief & a murderer to boot!!” Shaw has added later “Mr T.J. Keely having apparently disregarded this communication and purloined this book, expects the author to endorse the transaction. Accordingly – G. Bernard Shaw 5/4/24”.