The Elements of Book-Collecting, Iolo A. Williams — 1st Edition
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Publication: London, Elkin Mathews & Marrot Ltd., 1927
Formatting: 8vo, pp. [viii], 171, [13].
Condition Report: Very Good. The original tan cloth binding remains firm and structurally sound, showing light overall age-toning and faint localised spotting across the boards, accompanied by minor bumping to the spine ends and corners. The gilt lettering on the spine, while exhibiting some natural oxidation, remains entirely distinct and legible. Internally, the text block is securely bound, presenting standard uncut, deckle edges that display mild browning commensurate with the paper stock and age. There is light, scattered foxing primarily confined to the endpapers and preliminary leaves, but the main body of the text remains clean, bright, and highly readable throughout, presenting a very respectable and unsophisticated copy.
Catalogue Note: This is a first edition of Iolo A. Williams's respected bibliographical treatise. The volume is presented in its standard original trade binding of tan cloth and features characteristic uncut deckle edges. Printed by the Whitefriars Press, the work remains unillustrated, focusing entirely on its comprehensive textual guidance.
Surviving first editions in their original bindings, particularly those avoiding severe deterioration or modern, sophisticated repairs, are becoming increasingly uncommon on the open market.
A quintessential guide for the aspiring bibliophile, The Elements of Book-Collecting offers a charming and highly practical window into the world of rare books as it was navigated in the 1920s. Iolo A. Williams demystifies the complexities of format, collation, and condition, presenting essential knowledge with the wit and clarity of a seasoned collector. Tailored for book-lovers of modest means but boundless enthusiasm, this enduring work remains an invaluable and thoroughly enjoyable reference for anyone passionate about the history and anatomy of the printed word.
Book Condition: Very Good
Book Authors: Iolo A. Williams
Book Publisher: Elkin Mathews & Marrot Ltd.
Book Language: English
Narrative Type: Non-Fiction
Genre: Education
Book edition: First Edition
Signed: No
Book Pages: 192
Book Publication Year: 1927
Book Publication Date:
Book Binding: Hardcover
Illustrator: N/A
Book Series: N/A
Country/region of manufacture: London, United Kingdom
Book Dimensions:
Book Condition Guide
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| New | A brand-new, unread and professionally handled book. Carefully preserved from publication to purchase, these books are offered in the best attainable condition. This grade applies to recently published titles that have not entered long-term storage. |
| As New | The book is in pristine, original condition as if just published. No signs of use or handling. The dust jacket (if present) is equally flawless. This grade applies to any book that has remained untouched in storage for years. |
| Fine | The book is close to As New. It remains bright and attractive, but could show minor imperfections to the boards and/or dust jacket (if present). Its pages are typically clean and unmarked. |
| Near Fine | The book has a number of small flaws, i.e. slight rubbing to the edges, or tiny chips or creases to the dust jacket (if present). Its pages may have faint marks, or creases that are barely perceptible — nothing that detracts from their overall condition. |
| Very Good | The book maintains its structural integrity, and has no major flaws such as tears to its binding or pages. It may, however, show signs of careful use, handling, or storage — small marks and creases, light foxing. Its dust jacket (if present) remains fully intact, but small tears may be present. |
| Good | A book that remains intact and readable with complete text pages, but shows moderate signs of wear and use to both the book and dust jacket (if present). It may have noticeable creases, nicks, or stains, and the spine likely shows fading, bumping, and rubbing. There could be writing, underlining, and other marks on some pages, though the majority will be clean and tidy. |
| Fair | A book with significant wear or damage. The text pages will be complete, but there may be heavy underlining, highlighting and staining throughout, and the book’s endpapers, half-title, and copyright pages could be damaged or missing. The binding could be loose, and the dust jacket (if present) may have notable scuffs or tears. These copies are usually of interest for content, signature(s) or scarcity. |
| Poor | A heavily worn book whose value lies in its complete and legible text. A poor book will have substantial defects — loose joints or hinges, detached covers, loose and/or missing pages, and could be heavily soiled. A poor book is also known as a reading copy, and although compromised, can hold historical or bibliographic significance. |
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