This is a museum-quality, one-of-a-kind (OOAK) piece of decorative art from the height of the Arts & Crafts movement, perfect for a curated library, mantel, or desk. This is a unique book hand-bound and signed by the artisan, Phebe Anne King.

Aesthetic Appeal
The aesthetic is elegant Arts & Crafts, with the original text block dating to the Art Nouveau period of 1899. The high-quality full brown leather binding is tactile and rich in patina, featuring five distinctive raised bands on the spine that underscore the exceptional craftsmanship.

The History & Provenance
The book contains the classic text of Shakespeare's Sonnets, with celebrated Art Nouveau illustrations by Henry Ospovat. The pages were originally printed in 1899.
The most unique detail is the handwritten binder's signature on the back endpaper: "Hand-bound by Phebe Anne King." This confirms the book is a bespoke, signed commission-a personal artifact from the Arts & Crafts movement where a talented woman created this unique leather casing for the text.

Details for the Collector:

Book Title: Shakespeare's Sonnets

Publisher (Text Block): John Lane, The Bodley Head (London and New York)

Publication Year (Text Block): 1899 (MDCCCXCIX)

Illustrator: Henry Ospovat (Art Nouveau style)

Binding: One-of-a-Kind Full Leather Hand-Binding

Artisan Signature: Hand-signed by Phebe Anne King (See photo).


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent vintage condition for a piece over 125 years old. The binding is tight and stable, and the internal pages are clean. The leather shows a beautiful patina consistent with age; please note minor wear to the corners and a light scuff on the back cover (pictured).

Origin:
United Kingdom

Materials & Techniques:
Leather

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent vintage condition for a piece over 125 years old. The binding is tight and stable, and the internal pages are clean. The leather shows a beautiful patina consistent with age; please note minor wear to the corners and a light scuff on the back cover (pictured).