1896 - Mr. Midshipman Easy, Albert Turbayne Decorative Binding

This handsome 1896 edition of Mr. Midshipman Easy by Frederick Marryat, published by Macmillan & Co., Ltd. (London), features a richly decorated blue cloth binding designed by Albert Turbayne with gilt front board and spine, all-edges gilt, and featuring the celebrated ‘peacock’ endpapers designed by Albert Angus Turbayne. This edition presents the full Art Nouveau motif—with the sweeping tail-feathers across the front pastedown and free endpaper, richly complementary to the gilt and cloth binding. The text runs 389 pp., includes a frontispiece with tissue guard, and is illustrated by Fred Pegram. A fine example of late-Victorian nautical fiction meets elite decorative binding, ideal for collectors of maritime literature, lavish bindings, or early adventure novels.

Binding crisp, gilt bright; very minor bumping to corners; prelims with some foxing; pages clean and bright; illustrations intact with tissue guard present; decorative peacock endpapers. A collector-quality copy.

Albert Angus Turbayne (1866–1940) was a prominent American-born book designer and illustrator who became one of the leading figures of the British Art Nouveau movement. Best known for his work with Macmillan & Co. in the 1890s, Turbayne created some of the era’s most iconic decorative bindings and endpapers, including his celebrated peacock and stylized botanical motifs. His designs are instantly recognizable for their flowing lines, symmetry, and refined gilt work, elevating Victorian and Edwardian cloth bindings into collectible works of art. Turbayne’s influence continues to be felt among enthusiasts of fine decorative bindings and the golden age of book design.

Condition: Very Good- Near Fine

Size: 4¾″ × 7¾″ 

A superb addition to any collection of fine bindings, nautical fiction or Victorian decorative books.