The First of May: A Fairy Masque
London: Henry Sotheran & Co., 1881. 62x43.5cm: 57 photogravure proofs on India paper, laid down on large sheets of art paper numbered I-LVI with an additional limitation sheet signed by Crane in pencil. Limited Edition, First Proofs, this being No. 88 of 200 copies on India paper, signed by the artist. This set is one of 200 first proofs issued, while a set of 300 copies was issued as second proofs. Brown cloth-covered portfolio, gilt-tooled, with paper onlay to front; yellow burnished endpaper, protective brown paper wrapper with remnants of red wax seals. Photogravures by Goupil & Co. Portfolio. Portfolio is whole but rubbed with some staining to cover, creased flaps, and wear to brown paper wrappers, silk ribbon ties lacking. Sheets rubbed at edges, with minor light foxing, not affecting proofs. Overall Very Good, with image area generally in Fine condition.
Set of first proofs of Crane’s work, with calligraphic text inside decorated and illustrated border panels, dedicated to Charles Darwin. Crane executed both the calligraphy and illustrations himself, believing strongly in the importance of unity of design. Though he was an active Socialist from the early 1880’s, this work treated May Day as the traditional celebration of spring. May 1st was not chosen as the date for International Workers’ Day until 1889.
Crane, a leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement and a contemporary of William Morris, was known for his richly decorative style and ability to blend narrative with ornament and symbolism. In The First of May, he expresses this vision through intricate illustrations of May Day festivities, capturing a broader Victorian longing for beauty, folklore, and escape from industrial modernity.
Price: $2,500.00
Item #10663