This beautiful compilation edition of Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb features illustrations by N.M.Price. It was published by T.C & E.C Jack. The book itself is undated but there is a very sad presentation plate dated 1916. In memory of a man who was killed in World War I whilst tending to the wounded. It's the first time I've ever seen a presentation plate like that before.
The book is bound in pale brown cloth with a colour illustration to the front board. It's in good condition for it's age but there are signs of wear. There is a faint ring mark on the front board from a cup and the cloth is lightly soiled. There is a splash mark to the back board. The corners are very slightly worn and crushed, and there is rubbing to the board edges. The spine ends are crushed, which has caused minor fraying to the cloth.
Inside the book there are colour illustration plates which help bring these Shakespearean tales to life. There is significant foxing throughout and some minor cracking to the gutter in places, although all the pages remain tightly bound. There is a beautiful and poignant presentation plate (as mentioned above) to the front pastedown and a written name and date to the front free endpaper. There is also a small white mark (possibly paint?) to the FFEP.
Dimensions of the book are approximately 20.5cm x 15.5cm x 4cm.
The book will arrive hand wrapped in patterned wallpaper and string.
I use a range of eco friendly, 100% recyclable jiffy bags and boxes, and whenever possible I use brown paper tape. The green bubbled wrap is biodegradable and the clear bubble wrap is 100% recyclable. I also reuse boxes when I feel it's appropriate (if the boxes are sturdy enough).