UNIQUE Association Copy Enoch Arden 1864 1st gift from Alfred Tennyson to friend

Description: A Unique, one of a kind and important historical association copy of Alfred Lord Tennyson's 1st edition of Enoch Arden. This book was not only a more richly produced gift copy made for Tennyson to bestow on his friends, THIS PARTICULAR COPY was given to B. L. Chapman by Alfred Lord Tennyson himself as Chapman noted on the ffp. (see pic) Chapman was instrumental in aiding the popularity of Tennyson's now famous Charge of the Light Brigade. B. L. Chapman was Benedict Lawrence Chapman, a barrister at Lincoln's Inn and close friend of Tennyson. A number of letters exchanged between Chapman and Tennyson testify to their close friendship. After reading early copies of The Charge of the Light Brigade it was Chapman who reported the "soldier's version's" growing fame among those serving in the Crimea and encouraged Tennyson to publish 'slips' and have them distributed to the soldiers who were clamoring for the work after hearing it sung. This convinced Tennyson to edit the earlier version he had already submitted to publication and popularize this version with its edits and substitutions. Chapman also received an earlier gift of Tennyson's "Maud" and offered some judicious comments which have not survived. He was Tennyson;s smoking and drinking buddy, an intelligent fellow outside of the world of letters but still within Tennyson's inner circle who could advise Tennyson accordingly. Condition This 1st edition is bound by Bradbury and Evans in rich red calf with gilt decoration, and gilt edges, raised bumps, the works, etc. (check out the golden florets and marbled end papers in the pics) There is some wear to the front hinge, though the binding is still quite firm and there is no interior webbing visible. A scuff on the front board and some darker staining on the back cover are presentbumping to corners, interior mostly clean: Inscribed by Chapman who recorded Tennyson's gift to him. (there is also a previous owner's name from 1898, in pencil) As scarce edition of Tennyson's important work, this handsome example is elevated by its close association to Tennyson, and an important member of his circle.

Price: 240 USD

Location: Villa Park, Illinois

End Time: 2025-02-03T23:37:40.000Z

Shipping Cost: 4.63 USD