Marlborough: His Life and Times
Harrap, London, 1933-1938, 1st editions, hardcover. Churchill’s monumental biography of his great ancestor, John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough. Thoroughly researched in the family archives at Blenheim Palace, and assisted by several research assistants, this work was published in 4 volumes in 1933, 34, 36, 38 respectively. The first trade edition from Harrap is a lovely deluxe binding. Bound in rich burgundy cloth over bevelled boards, the family arms gilt on front covers, top edges gilt. Books measure 6.25 x 9.25 inches and are nearly 2 inches thick. All four are well illustrated with plates, facsimiles of documents and numerous maps and plans. A first class production which was well received at the time and is highly collectible now. Books are all first printings.Spines have good strong colour, vol. I only shows a little sunning at the head of the spine. Page edges off white, spots on vols II and III. Owner name in vol. I. Dustwrappers are all correct firsts. Vol I dj has ragged loss at head of spine which is darkened; vol. II dj well worn with wrinkles and tearslosses along edges; vol III dj darkened on spine; vol IV dj darkened on spine, losses at head pf spine. (A40aa). Item #31903
Price: $600.00