Item 86 is an inscribed copy of the scarce first edition, first issue of Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. Stoker held the job of managing the Lyceum Theater in London for the noted actor Henry Irving at the time. It introduced him to many of the literati of the day. This copy is inscribed to Mrs. W.S. Gilbert with "very warm regards," dated December 7, 1897. Mrs. Gilbert was the wife of William Schwenck Gilbert, better known as the Gilbert of Gilbert and Sullivan. He and Gilbert had become close friends after working together on a piece by Gilbert that was performed at the Lyceum. £125,000 (US $202,850).

 

Cecil Beaton was a notable mid-20th century photographer, providing photographs for popular magazines, who became best known for his photographic portraits. He later expanded to set design for plays and movies. Beaton's personal portraits were known for their atypical settings, blending the subject with unexpected backgrounds. Item 11 is Beaton's The Face of the World an International Scrapbook of People and Places, published in 1957. This was a limited edition, probably no more than 150 copies, likely fewer. This is copy number 40, signed by Beaton. £750 (US $1,217).

 

Peter Harrington may be reached at +44 (0)20 7591 0220 or mail@peterharrington.co.uk.