The Book of Nonsense - Edward Lear
Author: Edward Lear
Edition: 39th edition (all though 18th and 25th editions can be identified it doesn’t seem that Warne kept a continuous numbering scheme, and intermediate editions may not exist)
Publisher: Frederick Warne & Co., London
Date: c 1900
Format: 26.5x21.5 cm
Binding: Original red cloth, with gilt and black tooling
Pagination: 110 illustrations one per page pages blank to rear
Condition: Internally very fine No foxing no marks. Bumping to back strip head and tail but other wise very clean and bright.
Description: A celebrated collection of whimsical limericks and absurd illustrations by Edward Lear, the master of literary nonsense. This is in exceptional condition by far the best example that I have ever seen.
Additional Notes: Historical Significance: Lear’s work (first published in 1846) pioneered the limerick form and influenced children’s literature.
Illustrations: Retains Lear’s distinctive doodle-style artwork, integral to the nonsense genre.
