Belgian Fairy Tales Value Guide

This 1919 edition of Belgian Fairy Tales is a significant work by William Elliot Griffis, an American orientalist known for bridging cultural gaps through folklore. Published by the Thomas Y. Crowell Company, this collection captures traditional Belgian narratives during a pivotal post-WWI era of international interest.

What Is Belgian Fairy Tales Worth?

The typical price range for Belgian Fairy Tales is $25 - $35 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Overall condition of the hardcover binding, specifically looking for spine fraying or corner bumping.
• The presence and preservation of internal illustrations or plates that accompany the folklore text.
• Completeness of the volume, ensuring no pages are missing and the binding remains tight.
• Historical provenance, such as original owner inscriptions or rare dust jackets which can push value toward the higher end of the $25-$35 range.

How to Identify Belgian Fairy Tales?

• Verify the title page lists William Elliot Griffis as the author and Thomas Y. Crowell Company, New York as the publisher.
• Check for the 1919 copyright date or publication date on the verso of the title page.
• Confirm the presence of the original hardcover binding, which typically features period-specific decorative typography or illustrations.
• Look for the distinct paper stock and ink quality characteristic of early 20th-century American printing.

History of Belgian Fairy Tales

William Elliot Griffis was an American orientalist, Congregational minister, lecturer, and author. He was a pioneer in introducing Japanese culture to America. His "Belgian Fairy Tales" is a collection of traditional stories from Belgium, reflecting the rich folklore of the region. Published in the early 20th century, these collections were popular for sharing cultural narratives with younger audiences.