Ring and the Book, The – Robert Browning
VG 1898 First Illustrated

For sale: a Rare and Exceptional first hardcover edition, first printing of The Ring and the Book by Robert Browning. New Edition stated, 1898 ‎Smith, Elder and Co. London with title page dated 1898, no date on the copyright page and the eight pages of Smith, Elder books at the rear.  First Printing with no subsequent printing. 

The exterior of the book is in Very Good condition with cloth boards with strong sheen and gilt on the front board design with the author’s initials. The spine has strong title gilt and the spine edges are rolled and rubbed.  Both front and rear boards have some sheen, and no graphic on the rear. Also, with a tight binding, mild spine tilt,  heavy edge wear, and heavily rubbed corners.  The interior of the book is also in Very Good condition with no other marks, inscriptions or other signs of ownership. The rear end paper and the interior pages are clean and evenly toned.

No dust jacket.

Considered one of Robert Browning’s most famous works, The Ring and the Book is a poem based on a real-life murder case in 17th century Rome. The poem explores the perspectives and motives of various characters involved in the case, including the murderer, his victim, and legal officials.

Ships promptly in a secure mailer with book wrapped in both craft paper and bubble wrap.