A Christmas Carol – Charles Dickens, Illustrated by Arthur Rackham (William Heinemann, 1933)

This William Heinemann edition (1933), illustrated by Arthur Rackham, is of interest to collectors of Dickens first editions, Arthur Rackham illustrated books, and fine bindings in Victorian and Edwardian literature.

About: A fine copy in a handsome green morocco-style binding with raised bands, gilt floral tools, and burgundy title label to spine; marbled boards in the peacock pattern; green top edge. Interior bright with Rackham colour plates clean and unfaded. A beautiful example of this celebrated illustrated edition, presented in a binding of exceptional quality.

Details:

• Title: A Christmas Carol
• Author: Charles Dickens
• Publisher: William Heinemann Ltd, London
• Publication Date: 1933
• Edition: Cheaper Edition
• Binding: Green morocco-style leather spine, raised bands, gilt tools; marbled boards
• Illustrator: Arthur Rackham
• Condition: Nearly Fine

Synopsis: Heinemann 'cheaper edition' with full Arthur Rackham colour illustrations; fine quality binding with gilt spine and marbled boards; a highly desirable illustrated Dickens for bibliophiles and Rackham collectors.

Review: Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol (first published 1843) remains the defining Christmas narrative in the English literary tradition. Arthur Rackham's illustrations for the Heinemann edition — among his most celebrated commissions — bring Scrooge, the Ghosts, and the Cratchit family to life with characteristic atmospheric detail. The 1933 Heinemann edition, illustrated by Rackham shortly before his death in 1939, is among the most sought-after illustrated Dickens of the twentieth century.