Hoffmann

1879 · ref. MR239 — A highly desirable Victorian edition of one of the most influential and enduring illustrated children's books ever published. First issued in Germany in 1845 Struwwelpeter revolutionised children's publishing and became an international phenomenon inspiring countless editions translations and adaptations. Its unforgettable cautionary tales including Shock-Headed Peter Harriet and the Matches and Little Suck-a-Thumb secured its place as a landmark work of nineteenth-century children's literature and illustrated book history. This copy is the Thirty-ninth Edition published by Griffith Farran Okeden & Welsh the distinctive late Victorian imprint used by the firm during a relatively brief period placing this edition circa 1879-1881. What elevates this example above the majority of surviving copies is the presence of its original dust wrapper. Victorian children's books were heavily used and dust wrappers were generally regarded as disposable. Consequently wrappers rarely survived particularly in children's titles. Even though worn and fragile the survival of the original printed wrapper more than a century later is of considerable bibliographical and collector interest and substantially enhances the desirability of the volume. The book remains in Good to Very Good condition overall. The binding appears sound the contents are complete and the colour illustrations retain pleasing brightness and freshness. Pages show expected age-toning and occasional handling marks consistent with an authentic Victorian children's book but remain remarkably well preserved. The original dust wrapper is Fair with significant wear commensurate with age. There is general soiling creasing edge wear several tears chipping and areas of loss particularly to the lower portion of the front panel. Nevertheless the wrapper remains substantially intact fully identifies the edition and represents a rare survival. A genuinely scarce Victorian children's book made especially attractive by the survival of its original jacket. An appealing example for collectors of early illustrated books children's literature Victorian publishing and Struwwelpeter in particular. GRIFFITH FARRAN OKEDEN & WELSH hardcover