by (Arts and Crafts)
Chicago: Reilly & Britton Co., (ca.1912). Octavo. Bound in original coarse tan cloth with a repeating pattern of small stylized roses in ochre, orange and forest green on the cover and spine, gilt titles. Printed in soft shades of mint green and blush coral. This handsome book has 191 pages intended for the recording of events and people in the life of a young girl about to step into the wide world. The illustrations and endleaves reflect the strong influence of Arts and Crafts as well as Art Nouveau design and ornament. A pristine copy of a scarce title from one of the leading publishers of the day. There is a curious contemporary inscription on the front free endpaper. "Merry Christmas, "Harry" from Dot...." The lengthy inscription is full of references that are obviously shared secrets amongst friends, with "Harry" certainly being a pet name for a young lady. Only one page has an entry, "Dancing Parties". Dated February 18, 1916, the writer talks about attending a party with Cushman Jordan and having a "perfectly peachy" time. "Harry" discusses her dances, her dress and the electric lights. A marvelous bit of American society and publishing at the turn of the last century.
(Inventory #: 2442)