Description
Offered is the antique leather-and-board book "Autobiography of an Actress", written by Anna Cora Mowatt. The book is missing the title page so I don't know the publisher or publishing date, but the Introduction is dated 1853. In addition, photos of the first edition of the book show an identical cover to this, with slightly later editions having different covers, so this may also be a first edition, from 1854. The book is an ex-library book, having once been part of the Young Men's Library of Atlanta, and also one of the original books in the collection of the Mary Willis Library in Washington, Georgia, the oldest free library in the state. The library was founded in 1888 by Dr. Francis T. Willis in memory of his daughter Mary. Dr. Willis moved from Washington, Georgia to Richmond in 1867 but donated money and his personal library to the new building in Washington when it was completed. This is apparently one of his original donated books, as the label inside the front cover states it was presented by Dr. F. T. Willis of Virginia (see photo #3). I don't know if that is Dr. Willis' signature or that of a librarian. The book is approx. 7" x 4 3/4" and contains 448 pages. It is in fair condition. The marbled leather-and-board hard cover has extensive wear, with a cracked diagonal line on the front cover and other corner, spine and surface wear. The gold words and lines on the spine are still partially shiny, however. There is no cracking inside either the front or the back cover but cracking does appear further in, beyond the endpapers. The pink endpapers are lightly soiled, with several areas of writing, and the library labels already mentioned. The title page and frontispiece are missing but I don't see any other missing pages and none with tears other than possibly very short edge tears. Most of the pages seem reasonably well-attached to the binding but a few are slightly looser. They have yellowed and have light to moderate foxing, but all text is readable. In addition to the writing already mentioned, there is some occasional writing in the text as well. I have a lot of experience with vintage and antique books but am not an expert so please let me know if my description is missing information and you have additional questions. I will do my best to answer them! Please take a moment to look at some of the other items in my eBay store!
Makarand373c
The book arrived on time and in good condition. The box it was packed in was a little large and the book had shifted a little in transit, but as it was wrapped inside it handled the bumps well. The price was good for the condition and everything seemed as it should. Thanks!!!
user36987725
Nice collection of old postcards shipped quickly, in sturdy packaging. Condition as advertised and good value for the five. Very pleased with the purchase. Great service from this seller. Would buy from again. Highly Recommended!
Stackologist
Awesome seller! 5+ stars! The items were as described and the seller packaged the items with incredible care. Above and beyond! I appreciate it! The items arrived beautifully & shipping was lightening fast. Highly recommend!