5W Jane Austen. Edited by R. W. Chapman. The Oxford Illustrated editions, ca. 1946. Two Volume Set

Notes

The Oxford Illustrated Jane Austen, edited by R. W. Chapman, was first published in 1923 by Oxford University Press. This edition is renowned for its scholarly rigor and elegant presentation, featuring Austen's novels based on early editions, complete with Chapman's extensive notes, indexes, and illustrations from contemporary sources. The set was initially released in five volumes, but a more compact two-volume edition was later produced, combining the original five volumes into two, bound in brown cloth and printed on India paper, allowing for a slimmer profile without sacrificing content.

The two-volume edition retains all the scholarly features of the original five-volume set, including Chapman's annotations and the period illustrations, but in a more condensed format. This makes it a desirable option for collectors and readers who appreciate both the academic depth and the physical elegance of the edition. The 1946 reprint of this two-volume set is particularly notable, as it was printed on India paper and includes all the original illustrations and notes, offering a balance between scholarly content and portability. Such editions are highly valued among Austen enthusiasts and collectors for their combination of scholarly integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Description.

Red cloth binding with gilt lettering to spine. Paper dust wrappers. Printed on India paper. Chipping to corners and extremities of dust wrappers. Very good condition overall.