Lady Clare Value Guide

This 1884 hardcover edition of Lady Clare is a quintessential example of the Victorian gift book, published by Porter & Coates in Philadelphia. It is highly collectible for its 22 intricate illustrations by prominent period artists that bring Tennyson's 1842 romantic ballad to life through a chivalric aesthetic.

What Is Lady Clare Worth?

The typical price range for Lady Clare is $50 - $55 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The preservation of the gold gilt leafing, which is prone to rubbing and fading over time.
• The physical condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for fraying at the spine ends or corner bumping.
• The presence of foxing or tanning on the interior paper, which can detract from the visual appeal of the illustrations.
• Completeness of the volume, ensuring no pages or plates have been removed from the binding.

How to Identify Lady Clare?

• Verify the 'Porter & Coates' publisher imprint and the Philadelphia location on the title page.
• Check for the specific 1884 publication date to ensure it is the correct illustrated gift edition.
• Confirm the presence of 22 distinct illustrations throughout the text as originally issued.
• Look for the original cloth-bound boards featuring decorative gold gilt leafing on the cover and spine.

History of Lady Clare

Published by Porter & Coates in Philadelphia, this specific edition was part of a series of illustrated gift books popular in the late 19th century. The poem, written by Tennyson in 1842, tells a romantic tale of true love and social class. This edition features 22 illustrations by various prominent artists of the day, reflecting the high Victorian aesthetic and the era's fascination with chivalric romance.