Lot 80
  • 80

Browning, Elizabeth Barrett

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
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Description

  • Browning, Elizabeth Barrett
  • 'The Seraphim', autograph manuscript fragment of the poem
  • ink on paper
57 lines, corresponding to lines 54 to 110 of the printed text (found on pp.7-10 of the first edition), fair copy with one autograph revision to l.73 ("likeness" revised to "copy"), 2 pages, paginated pp.3-4, 4to (230 x 185mm), c.1838, pin holes, light spotting

[with:] The Seraphim, and Other Poems. Saunders and Otley, 1838. 8vo, first edition, first impression [?], original purple cloth blocked in blind [Barnes A4]

Provenance

Harry Buxton Forman (1842-1917), [book]: ownership inscription dated 2 May 1868 and bookplate; [both items]: his sale, Anderson Galleries, New York, 15 March 1920, lot 97 

Literature

Index of English Literary Manuscripts: Volume 4 1800-1900, Part I (1982), BrEB 797

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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."

Catalogue Note

"...The 'Seraphim' has faults enough — and weaknesses, besides — but my voice is in it, in its individual tones, and not inarticulately..." (E.B. Browning to R.H. Horne)

A FINE, ATTRACTIVELY WRITTEN FRAGMENT OF THE TITLE POEM FROM BARRETT BROWNING'S THIRD COLLECTION. A similar fragment of the autograph manuscript of the poem belonged to Forman's friend and fellow conspirator T.J. Wise and is now in the British Library (Ashley MS A211).