Books

Spectacular limited edition of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein'. Published by the Croatian fine press, Amaranthine Books, in a limitation of only 300 copies, this being #109. Signed by Marko Matijasevic (creative concept) and Yana Adamovi? (illustrations). Removed from publisher's shrink wrap but o/w as new and will be sent in publisher's protective packaging. This copy comes with the 'swag' that was only available with books purchased directly from Amaranthine: print, sticker and notebook (sealed in publisher's shrink wrap). The Doctor Edition of 'Frankenstein' attempts to incorporate the spirit of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and his (mis)deeds. It is quarter-bound in finest black goatskin leather and aluminium. The use of aluminium was inspired by an operating table and therefore a real surgeon's needle was blocked onto the front cover. The spine is blocked in silver, while the detailing on aluminium is engraved with laser. There are eight illustrations inside (two spreads) that are sensitive to heat, so they transform upon touch, which means each illustration has two phases. There are illustrated drop caps for every chapter, handmade cellular pattern marbled endpapers by Freya Scott, silver page edges, and several hidden design details. Printed offset on Fedrigoni Savile Row 100g paper. Smyth sewn with black thread. The book comes in a solander box lined with purple velvet which was inspired by a doctor's tool bag from that era. The box also houses a bookmark in the shape of a doctor's scalpel. 8vo - over 7� - 9�" tall. This is a truly unique and extremely tactile version of 'Frankenstein' which was limited to only 300 signed and numbered copies, sold out quickly at the publisher, and is scarce on the secondary market. A must have for collectors. Additional images available on request or these may be viewed on my eBay listing. Heavy/oversize book. U.K. postage at default charge but overseas buyers may be asked for extra. All orders professionally packed, tracked and/or signed-for, and insured.

Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus" stands as a cornerstone of gothic literature and a prized artifact in the rare book market. Published in 1818, the novel's lasting influence on literature, culture, and science fiction has made it highly sought after by collectors. This article explores the literary importance of "Frankenstein," its historical context, and the factors contributing to its rarity and value. "Frankenstein" is often regarded as one of the first science fiction novels. Its themes of unchecked ambition, the quest for knowledge, and the consequences of playing God have captivated readers for over two centuries. Shelley's exploration of complex ethical and philosophical questions has made the novel a subject of academic study and a timeless piece of literature. The story's impact on popular culture is profound, with numerous adaptations in film, theatre, and other media. The novel was conceived during the summer of 1816, known as the "Year Without a Summer," at the Villa Diodati near Lake Geneva. It emerged from a storytelling contest among Mary Shelley, her future husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, Lord Byron, and John Polidori. The first edition of "Frankenstein" was published anonymously in 1818 by the small London publishing house Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor, & Jones. Only 500 copies were printed, and Mary Shelley's name did not appear as the author until the 1823 edition. The rarity of "Frankenstein" in the rare book market is mainly due to the scarcity of its first edition. With only 500 copies initially printed and the book's age, surviving copies are extremely rare. The fragile nature of early 19th-century books, combined with historical events such as wars and natural disasters, has further reduced the number of existing copies. The market value of a first edition of "Frankenstein" can reach staggering amounts. In recent years, well-preserved copies have been auctioned for hundreds of thousands of dollars. For instance, a first edition copy sold at a Christie's auction in 2021 for $1.17 million.