A rare book owned by Jane Austen, featuring her annotations, is set to go under the hammer in a highly anticipated auction.
An extraordinary literary artifact is set to captivate book enthusiasts and Austen aficionados alike as an annotated copy of Isaac D’Israeli’s Curiosities of Literature, owned by the renowned author Jane Austen, is set to be auctioned next month. This exceedingly rare find sheds light on Austen’s reading habits and offers insights into her writing process. The book, which has been privately owned for decades, will finally make its public debut, marking a significant occasion for literary history.
A Remarkable Piece of History
The annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature is considered a remarkable piece of history due to its connection to Jane Austen. Dr Kalika Sands, an international specialist at Sotheby’s, the auction house hosting the event, describes it as a major rediscovery. The book not only provides a glimpse into Austen’s interests as a reader but also offers valuable insights into her writing process. This extraordinary find is a testament to the enduring fascination with Austen’s life and work.
Jane Austen’s Annotations
The copy of Curiosities of Literature features Austen’s signature and pencil underlinings in various sections. These annotations are believed to have been made by Austen herself and offer a fascinating glimpse into her literary preferences and inspirations. Some of the underlined sections directly relate to themes found in Austen’s novels, highlighting the deep connection between her reading and writing.
Themes and Connections
One of the annotated sections, titled “English Ladies,” includes a quote from Gilles Ménage, which discusses the prevalence of daughters and wives of clergymen in England. This passage holds particular significance as Austen’s father was a clergyman, and clergymen often play important roles in her novels, providing stability and economic security to the heroines. The annotations in this section shed light on Austen’s personal life and the themes she explored in her writing.
Unveiling a Hidden Treasure
This annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature has remained privately owned since the 1940s, making its public appearance a momentous occasion. The book’s previous obscurity adds to its allure and makes it a highly sought-after item for collectors and Austen enthusiasts alike. The unveiling of this hidden treasure at auction offers a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the tangible connection between Austen and the literary world she inhabited.
The Auction and Expected Value
The annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature, along with a full suite of first editions of all of Austen’s published works, will go up for auction on 8 December. The book is expected to attract significant attention, with an estimated value between $100,000 and $150,000 (£79,682 and £119,522). The auction provides a unique opportunity for Austen fans and collectors to own a piece of literary history and cherish the annotations that offer a glimpse into the mind of one of the most beloved authors of all time.
Conclusion:
The upcoming auction of Jane Austen’s annotated copy of Isaac D’Israeli’s Curiosities of Literature is a momentous event for literary enthusiasts and Austen devotees. This rare find not only sheds light on Austen’s reading habits but also provides valuable insights into her writing process and the themes she explored in her novels. The annotations within the book offer a tangible connection to Austen’s world, making it an invaluable treasure for collectors and fans alike. As the gavel falls, the journey of this remarkable piece of literary history will continue, inspiring generations to come.
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