Rare First Edition of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” to be Sold at Auction
Monster Book Discovery in Newcastle
A Rare copy of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus” has been discovered in Newcastle and will be sold as part of Anderson & Garlands March Fine Art & Antiques Sale 10th, 11th & 12th March 2009
Despite a missing back cover and having a tatty appearance the book is expected to make between £7,000 – £10,000.
Charlotte Brown, Anderson & Garland’s book specialist said;
“This is the rare first edition, published anonymously in 1818. Copies in good condition can sell for as much as £50,000 and although our copy is in poor condition it’s an icon of English Literature that collectors will still be keen to own.”
She continued
“Consigned from a local estate, the book is inscribed ‘Rev R Morehead’ by its original owner on the inside the front cover. The Reverend Robert Morehead, Dean of Edinburgh, was a member of a Scottish Landed Family and Laird of Herbertshire Castle, near Falkirk. Morehead was also editor of the Edinburgh Magazine and reviewed this very book in the March 1818 edition. The Family had well known Whig sympathies and as the book is a veiled critique of the industrial revolution it would have been one that resonated with their views. Morehead was an early supporter of women’s fiction, but gave the book a mixed review feeling that it transgressed: ‘the established order of nature as it appears, both in the world of matter and of mind.’.”
Charlotte Brown is available for interview.
Main contact for media Steven Moore 0191 4303000
Auction info www.andersonandgarland.com
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