Saturday, March 7, 2009

The Raven/ Edgar Allan Poe

This spectacular book is in my current possession but does not, unfortunately, belong to me!

It came from an estate I am helping to sell off. Luckily, when I came across this rare book, I was able to point out to the owner what she in fact had here. It was published in 1910.

Drawings are by John Rea Neill. (1877-1943). He was best known for illustrating more than 40 stories set in The Land of Oz.

I don't think I have ever held a book that touched me more on an emotional level. The Art Nouveau styling and dark quality of the drawings are mystical/magical.

I think this current economic climate is not the time to try to sell this rare edition. That actually suits me just fine.
I like it sitting on my shelf for a while...



11 comments:

hip said...

If in my possession, this is a book I wouldn't dream of selling. Beautiful illustrations.

Leililaloo said...

WOW, i get goosebumbs seeing the illustrations!

Penelope said...

WOW! I love it! Oh my goodness it's perfect, just perfect. If you're selling, might I enquire..? *opens wallet*

FoundVintageStyle said...

Hi Sparrow...
I have to do some research on it's value. If you like I will let you know before it goes on the market.

:o)

Waterrose said...

Oh, I couldn't part with that... What an unbelievable find. Did you ever read my very first blog post about a book I found that has a section comparing poe to chopin? Amazing little story

http://waterrosez.blogspot.com/2008/03/last-night.html

Patricia said...

Thank you so much for sharing!

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous book! Ironic that I came across your blog through theresaj's. It is said that Edgar Allen Poe wrote this book while staying at an old inn...in the town that I am originally from. They have the room roped off but you're allowed to peek inside:)
An interesting man and you have quite the treasure!
Great blog!!

Grace@PoeticHome said...

What an amazing treasure!! The illustrations are captivating.

The vintage maps that you spoke of on my blog sound lovely! I bet they would make wonderful additions to a dining room -- I hope your customer may share pictures with you one day...so you can share them with us :)

Indeed, I will be doing my best to blog. I may have a few guest bloggers next week while I first hit the road, but then it will be back to the regularly schedule program.

I hope you are having a wonderful week Carol!

Unknown said...

My aunt owned this exact edition of The Raven. Sadly she passed away recently. The book is now in my possession. I have no plans to part with it. I have been a fan of Poe all my life. The artwork is amazing in this edition! However, I would like to know how much it is worth. Can you help me?

Liz and Larry said...

I'm trying to find out the value of a near-mint copy of this book wrapped in the original tissue and in the original box with the same illustration as the cover of the book. Can anyone help me. Thanks.

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