Scarce 1926 first edition of The Book of the Bear: Being Twenty-one Tales Newly Translated from the Russian, translated by Jane Harrison and Hope Mirrlees, with illustrations by Ray Garnett.

Published in London by The Nonesuch Press in 1926.

An unusual collection of Russian bear stories, folk tales and literary pieces by writers including Tolstoy, Pushkin, Krylov, Remizov, Garshin and others. The volume was produced by the celebrated Nonesuch Press and is attractively illustrated throughout, including striking full-page color illustrations.

The book measures approximately 6.25 x 4 inches.

Original binding with brown cloth spine lettered in gilt “The Book of the Bear” and patterned paper-covered boards. A vintage bookseller label from The Holliday Bookshop, 19 E. 49th St., New York is present inside the rear cover.

Condition: Good antique condition overall, with substantial age-related wear. The patterned paper boards are heavily rubbed, scuffed and faded, with wear and losses along the edges and corners. Spine cloth remains present and gilt title is still readable. Interior shows overall toning, scattered foxing and spotting, including heavier spotting to the endpapers. Some edge wear and handling marks throughout. Binding appears intact in the photographs. No dust jacket or slipcase is present. Please review all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

A charming and collectible early Nonesuch Press production combining Russian folklore, literary translation and distinctive period illustration.