Description
The second, or New Edition, of Poems by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, published in 1850, containing the first appearance of “Sonnets From the Portuguese.”
Small octavo, [two volumes], xii, 362pp. viii, 480pp. In the publisher’s original teal-green blind stamped cloth. Title in gilt on spine, with author’s abbreviated (and newly married) name: “Elizth Barrett / Browning.” Both Volumes state “1850” on title page, indicating the new edition. This is the second state, with publisher’s imprint of “193 Piccadilly,” and “Late 186 Strand” listed below.
(Wise 7) (Ashley 1, 95) (Barnes A6)
Wear along hinges of both volumes, still solid. Solid text blocks with professional restoration to hinges of each volume. Faint sunning to spines, touch of rubbing to cloth at corners of boards and spines. Internally fine, with a frontispiece portrait of Browning in Volume I. Previous ownership inscription at front of each volume, dated 1852. Housed in a custom cloth clamshell case, title in gilt on spine. An exceptional example of a renowned Victorian-era poet’s beloved works.
Sonnets from the Portuguese by Elizabeth Barrett Browning holds immense literary significance for its deeply personal and passionate exploration of love. Comprising 44 sonnets, the collection captures Browning’s intense emotions and her journey from doubt to devotion in her relationship with fellow poet Robert Browning. The beginning of Sonnet 43 is one of the most famous lines in all of English poetry: “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.”
