1908 Life of William Shakespeare | Sidney Lee | Illustrated | Red Leather Prize Binding

A striking Shakespeare volume in a vivid red full leather prize binding, complete with gilt armorial and a documented 1918 presentation inscription.

A 1908 sixth edition of A Life of William Shakespeare by Sidney Lee, published in London by Smith, Elder & Co.

Bound in full red leather, the boards feature a finely gilt decorative border and a central armorial crest. The spine is richly gilt with floral tooling and a titled panel. The binding is further elevated by gilt dentelle detailing along the inner board edges and beautifully marbled endpapers.

To the front pastedown is a printed and handwritten prize award inscription from Skinners’ Company’s School, Tunbridge Wells, awarded to T. Bound for English, dated 1918 and signed by the headmaster. This adds a clear layer of provenance and historical context, placing the book within the tradition of British academic prize bindings of the early 20th century.

Sidney Lee’s biography was one of the most widely read and respected early accounts of Shakespeare’s life, offering a detailed portrait of the playwright’s career, his works, and the world of the Elizabethan stage. It traces Shakespeare’s rise in London, his involvement in the theatre, and the historical figures and settings that shaped his writing—making it both a literary study and a window into the cultural life of his time.

Illustrated with engraved portraits and photograves.

Binding firm and bright. Gilt remains crisp. Interior clean. 495pp.

Condition: Very Good

Size: 5 1/4” x 7 1/2”

A visually striking and well-preserved Shakespeare volume, enhanced by its original prize inscription and presentation history.