Kew Gardens
Hogarth Press, 1919.
First edition. Original 'wallpaper' wrappers probably from Roger Fry's Omega Workshops, hand painted in blue, brown and orange. Woodcut on page [16] in Kirkpatrick's state (2) though no priority exists. Illustrated with two woodcuts by Vanessa Bell. An exceptional copy, in near fine condition, with just some light wear to the spine fold. The corners are unrubbed and not creased. Small bookplate to front pastedown. An extremely bright, crisp copy of this scarce and fragile, ephemeral item. Housed in a custom made quarter leather case.
The author's third publication, one of approximately 150 copies, which were hand printed by Leonard and Virginia Woolf. The publication contributed dramatically to the fortunes of The Hogarth Press, set up by the Woolf principally as a hobby some two years before hand. The source of this unexpected demand was a very favourable review in the TLS,
"But here is "Kew Gardens" - a work of art, made, "created" as we say, finished, four square; a thing of original and therefore strange beauty, with its own "atmosphere", its own vital force... the more one gloats over "Kew Gardens" the more beauty shines out of it; and the fitter to it seems this cover that is no other cover, and carries associations;.."
At the time of the review, they had sold 49 copies to subscribers, Virginia Woolf recalls the effects in A Writer's Diary (1953),
"... we came back from Ashenham to find the hall table stacked, littered with orders for Kew Gardens. They strewed the sofa and we opened them intermittently through dinner... we were both excited... All these orders - 150 of them about from shops and private people".
Kirkpatrick A3; Woolmer 7
Stock ID: 9391
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