The Hobbit or There and Back Again.

TOLKIEN, J. R. R.; LEE, Alan (illus.).

Published by London: Harper Collins, 1997

First Alan Lee edition, signed limited issue, number 125 of 600 copies signed by the illustrator and specially presented in the Smaug-decorated binding and slipcase. Lee's illustrated editions of Tolkien were a key inspiration for Peter Jackson, who recruited Lee as a lead concept artist for the films. It is Lee's visualization of Middle-earth that is perhaps most familiar to a 21st-century audience. This deluxe issue was produced exclusively for Hatchards to celebrate both the 60th anniversary of the work's publication and the 200th anniversary of the bookshop's founding. A compliments card from Hatchards is loosely inserted. Large octavo. With 26 colour plates, 2 double-page maps printed in red and black, many line drawings in the text. Original dark red quarter morocco, spine lettered in gilt with Tolkien's monogram at head, red cloth sides ruled in gilt and stamped with Smaug device on front, marbled endpapers, edges gilt. Housed in publisher's red cloth slipcase with Smaug device on front. Trivial scratch to rear cover, still a fine copy. Seller Inventory # 183611

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Hobbit or There and Back Again.
Publisher: London: Harper Collins, 1997
Signed: Signed by Author(s)
Edition: 1st Edition