Henry James, 1879

JAMES, Henry (1843-1916). The Madonna of the Future and Other Tales. London: Macmillan and Co., 1879.

First edition, with a presentation inscription in both volumes: "Leonora Blanche Lang / from the Author / 23 October 1879." Leonora Lang (née Alleyne; 1851-1933) was an English author, editor, and translator who collaborated with her husband, Andrew Lang (1844-1912), on The Fairy Books series, published between 1889-1913. In 1879 all three writers were up-and-comers in literary London. Edel & Laurence A10.

Two volumes, octavo (190 x 120mm). Half titles. Original navy blue cloth (text block of vol. 1 cracked with a gathering detached; vol. 2 with front hinge repaired; a little chipping at spine ends with small area of loss on vol. 2 extending down to the "M" in "Madonna", where the cloth has been reinforced a little; some wear at tips). Custom box. Provenance: Leonora Blanche Lang (1851-1933; inscription) – Barton Currie (bookplate; his sale, Parke Bernet, 7 & 8 May 1963, lot 226.