Beckford, William [illustrator: Dorn, Marion V.] Vathek, by William Beckford, a new translation by Herbert B. Grimsditch, with ten illustrations by Marion V. Dorn. Bloomsbury, The Nonesuch Press, 1929. Hardcover with brown paper covered boards and vellum spine. Marbled endpapers. The front displays a stamped and gilded decoration of Arabic typography. The spine contains the title information, also in gold. The top edge is gilded. The corners and edges of the boards are slightly damaged. Overall the book is in good condition. No foxing. 16.5 x 23.2 cm, [8] 1-172 [4] pp. The penultimate page shows that this book is number 856 of 1,050 limited editions that were published in England. This work contains eight full-page lithographs and two small vignettes by Marion Victoria Dorn (1896-1964). Vathek is an early example of a Gothic novel by the British writer William Beckford (17601844). The lead character, caliph Vathek, goes on several adventures to gain supernatural powers. Instead of obtaining these powers, Vathek is doomed to live in hell for eternity. During his quest he meets eerie individuals and travels to fantastical places. This work is a beautiful example of the oriental influence in the 19th century. The illustrations are made by the American illustrator and textile designer, Marion Victoria Dorn. These expressive and rather modern illustrations are her only pictures that were published as book illustrations. The repetition and variation of the motifs demonstrate her powerful designs which and can easily be converted into patterns for textiles or rugs. IDnumber 25570 (B2354) â‚Ź 47.70
88 Catalogue 38 / Illustrated Storybooks