Persuasion Austen, Jane. (Illustrator : John Austen )

* AS PICTURED - FIVE IMAGES * Originally printed in a private, limited edition (1944), this First Edition Thus, from the Avalon Press, with the original illustrations by John Austen (8 full-page coloured lithographs, 20 b/w chapter headings, 18 miniature portraits to endpapers). Introduction by Edmund Blunden. This was Jane Austen's last novel, and also the last book to be illustrated by John Austen. He was by this time in poor health, and the more mellow, refined style of his later years (although he only lived to be 62) ideally complements the lighter approach of Austen, who was herself an invalid, and died shortly after the book's completion. 8vo; green boards stamped gilt to spine, blindstamped titles to front. Clean, bright and sharp-cornered with minimal indeed evidence of use; top edge red. PP : ix + 229. Tight, bright and clean, no markings or inscriptions, minimal signs of use. Mild offset browning to eps; otherwise only very mild indeed age-toning and - mercifully - foxing-free throughout. An uncommonly tidy copy. In an unclipped (10/6) dustwrapper, with general light soiling, small creases and losses. Now protected and enhanced with removable clear sleeve and loose paper support. FREE P&P IN UK. Non-UK buyers quoted additional Shipping before purchasing. (25% proceeds to the Motor Neurone Disease Association)