1906 - The Poetical Works of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow|Paste-Down Noting Gift From the Prince and Princess of Wales/1907|Vellum

Published 1906
Henry Frowde, Oxford University Press/ London
Printed in Edinburgh

Complete Copyright Edition

**Paste-down with printed inscription “XMAS, 1907.” Miss E. Bridge From Their Royal Highnesses/ The Prince & Princesses of Wales.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882) was one of the most celebrated American poets of the 19th century, known for his lyrical and narrative poetry that captured themes of history, nature, and human emotion. His works, including Paul Revere’s Ride, The Song of Hiawatha, and Evangeline, became widely popular for their accessible style and storytelling. A professor at Harvard and a skilled translator, Longfellow helped bring European literary traditions to American audiences. His poetry, often infused with optimism and sentimentality, resonated deeply with readers of his time and contributed to his lasting legacy as one of America’s most beloved poets.

Bound in three-quarter vellum with gilt floral motifs and elegant art nouveau tooling, this exquisite 1906 edition of Longfellow’s poetry is both a literary and aesthetic treasure. The spine features a vibrant red leather title label stamped in gilt, with delicate embellishments framing the date at the base. Paired with red cloth-covered boards and decorative marbled endpapers. Vellum with some light markings.

Interior pages are clean and well-preserved. Gilt top edges. Rough-cut side/bottom edges. Illustrated portrait frontispiece with tissue guard. 878pp.

What makes this particular copy extraordinary is the printed paste-down on the front endpaper indicating that it was presented to Miss E. Bridge for Christmas 1907 from Their Royal Highnesses The Prince & Princess of Wales. At the time, these titles were held by the future King George V and Queen Mary, adding remarkable royal provenance to this already distinguished volume.
While the label is simply printed on modest paper without crest or signature, it likely indicates the book was part of a seasonal gift distribution from the future King George V and Queen Mary—possibly to staff, educators, or charitable recipients. Though not a formal royal presentation copy, this historical detail offers intriguing provenance and adds to the charm of the volume.

Featuring Longfellow’s complete poetic works including Voices of the Night, Evangeline, and The Song of Hiawatha.

Condition: Very Good

Size: 5 1/4” x 7 1/2”

A beautiful Edwardian-era gift with royal association.