1917 Scarce Legends and Romances of Brittany - Illustrated Antique Book

In excellent condition, here is a scarce antique copy of Legends and Romances of Brittany by Lewis Spence. A classic folklore anthology, acting as a comprehensive gateway to the mythology, traditions, and fairy tales of Brittany, France (ancient Armorica) for English-speaking audiences. Being a first edition, published in 1917 by George G Harrap & Company, London. With thirty-two illustrations, including a number in colour by Otway Cannell - and being their first major illustrated book. Has the even scarcer dust wrapper - I cannot find another copy with a jacket at time of listing. Appears UN-READ, as a number of pages have never been cut open. More details below.

Contents: The Land, The People and Their Story; Menhirs and Dolmens; The Fairies of Brittany; World Tales in Brittany; Breton Folk Tales; Popular Legends of Brittany; Hero Tales of Brittany; The Black Art and Its Minsters; Arthurian Romance in Brittany; The Bretton Lays of Marie de France; The Saints of Brittany; Costumes and Customs of Brittany.

Inside the pages are clean, bright and tightly bound. No writing or markings of previous ownership. The top closed edge is gilt, with spotting to the other two sides.

Stunning light-brown cloth backed boards with ornate green, white and red decoration to the front, brown decoration to the spine along with gilt titles. All in top order. The only condition point to note is bumping to the corners (see photos).

The dust wrapper is also in very good order - clean, and smart. It has some chipping to the spine ends with a small amount of loss. The spine ends have been stabilised on the inside with professional bookbinders tape (see photos). Some splits to the corner joints and again some chips, with a little loss to the corners. The spine has tanned in comparison to the sides. The jacket has now been protected for the future by the addition of a removable plastic sleeve - it looks very presentable indeed.

Your antique copy of Legends and Romances of Brittany will be wrapped with care in tissue and ribbon* and sent well packaged. I am always happy to add a gift card with a message to the parcel.

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H 24 cm x W 18 cm, pp 423, 1.2 kg.

* If you would prefer for your book not to be decoratively wrapped but sent simply in the protective packaging please add a note to the order.

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