Frankenstein, Mary Shelley, Facsimile of 1831 First Final Illustrated Edition
So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein, — more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation. If I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear! Here we offer a limited facsimile edition of the scarce, first illustrated edition, first single-volume edition, and final author’s revision, of Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley’s iconic horror story; Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus, originally published by Henry Colburn and Richard Bentley, Edinburgh. The book is faithfully recreated here by New York City-based craft publisher, Funsub Books, in a thoroughly acid-free process, presented in its original approximately 6.75 x 4.5-inch format; faithfully providing hand-threaded binding of the original 14 signatures in 100% wove cotton bond, plus tipped-in. Engravings by Theodor von Holst: a striking frontispiece engraving-the first-ever illustration of the Monster; and a first-title vignette depicting Frankenstein’s tearful parting from Elizabeth to pursue his studies. The book was originally ungraciously bound with the first installment of Frederick Schiller’s novel, The Ghost-Seer, along with a thick signature of advertisements. Here, it is presented on its own, bound in its original distinctive mauve silk boards. Each page of the text has been painstakingly digitally remastered to provide the highest quality reproduction of the original plates. To the endpapers has been added the charming detail of a facsimile period Edinburgh bookstore label. The edition is limited to 750 copies, each individually numbered on a tipped-in signature. As these are handcrafted, each copy may differ slightly from what you see in the pictures, and the number assigned to your copy will differ from the sample copy pictured. This faithful, handcrafted facsimile of this iconic first will make a wonderful addition to your collection or a very thoughtful gift. Have you seen all the amazing first and rare editions of iconic books we offer? — other auctions of classic antiquarian literature and special gifts! Thank you for your interest!