KIPLING, Rudyard – Barrack-Room Ballads and Other Verses | 1897 Twelfth Edition | Hugh Mansey Bayly Armorial Bookplate

An early edition of Kipling's celebrated collection of military verse, first published in 1892, this copy distinguished by the armorial bookplate of Hugh Mansey Bayly and an accompanying manuscript ownership signature. 'Barrack-Room Ballads and Other Verses' remains among Kipling's most significant literary achievements, establishing his reputation as a poet of the British Empire. Written largely in the vernacular of the common soldier, the collection offers a vivid portrayal of military service, regimental life, comradeship and imperial experience. Among its best-known poems are 'Mandalay', 'Gunga Din' and 'Danny Deever'. Provenance: The front pastedown bears the engraved armorial bookplate of Hugh Mansey Bayly, incorporating the family arms and motto. A manuscript ownership signature, apparently reading Hugh M. Bayly, appears on the facing preliminary leaf. The identification of the signatory and any wider military or familial associations remain subject to further research. Original brown cloth, spine lettered in gilt. Boards rubbed and faded, with wear to the extremities and minor fraying at the spine ends and corners. Gilt lettering somewhat dulled but legible. Text block aged, with uneven page edges, occasional foxing and general toning. Endpapers discoloured, with the armorial bookplate preserved on the front pastedown. A sound antiquarian copy retaining its original binding and ownership features. An appealing example of Kipling's early military poetry, with the additional interest of late-Victorian armorial provenance. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description. Shipping: International shipping costs are estimated. Additional charges may apply due to size or weight. We will confirm any extra postage costs with the buyer before processing the order. …