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Lot #472
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Handle with care: The poet writes on ceramics

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Description

Handle with care: The poet writes on ceramics

Distinguished American poet (1807–1882) who produced such timeless classics as “Paul Revere’s Ride,” “The Song of Hiawatha,” and “Evangeline.” He was the first American honored with a sculpted likeness in the “Poet’s Corner” of Westminster Abbey. ALS signed “Henry W. Longfellow,” one page both sides, 4.5 x 7, April 3, 1881. Longfellow writes to General Alex L. Webb. In part: “The engraving to which you allude is from a plaque. You will find it in Beckwith’s ‘Majolica and Fayence’ (New York: Appleton & Co., 1877), n. 82…. The artist has messed it over too hastily, and made bad work of it. The engraving itself is, however, more beautiful than the plaque. I have seen the same in other books on Keramics [sic]…. Beckwith’s description of the cup is minute, and will interest you….” A hint of very subtle marginal soiling and a few stray ink marks, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #333 - Ended May 14, 2008