Anna Kar -
Count Lyof [Lev] N. Tolsto
1886 - Thomas Y. Cromell &, New York - First Edition in English, Early Issue
A fine first English translation of the classic Russian novel, which writers consider the greatest work of literature ever, Tolstoy himself called it his first true novel, Nabokov called it ‘one of the greatest love stories in world literature’.
Set against the rich backdrop of 19th century Russia, recounting the story of beautiful, rebellious Anna and her doomed love affair with the impetuous cavalry officer, Count Vronsky. When Anna rejects her passionless marriage to be with her lover, their liaison scandalises society and tragedy ensues. In contrast to this narrative of love and jealousy, Tolstoy weaves the tale of Levin, a young man striving to find contentment and meaning in his life, his experiences drawn from those of Tolstoy himself. Anna Karénina was first published in serial installments from 1873 to 1877 in the periodical The Russian Messenger. Tolstoy clashed with editor Mikhail Katkov over political issues that arose in the final instalment (Tolstoy's unpopular views of volunteers going to Serbia); therefore, the novel's first complete appearance in Russian was in book form in 1878.
A complex novel in eight parts, with more than a dozen major characters dealing with themes of betrayal, faith, family, marriage, Imperial Russian society, desire, and rural versus city life.
It's been said that the plot was inspired by the story of a real woman. Anna Stepanovna Pirogova was the mistress of one of Tolstoy's friends. When she learned her lover had been neglecting her for his children's German governess, she ran away and wandered about the countryside for days.
Provenance: Stephen A. Bruel, with his signature dated 1892 to the front free endpaper.
References: Noble Objects.
Octavo (book size 19.7x14.3cm), pp. [4] viii 5-773 [1] [4 (publisher’s ads)] [2]. In publisher’s textured blue cloth, spines and upper boards with gilt lettering and ruling, gilt vignette of the House of Romanov seal to upper boards, gilt vignette of small crown to spines, all edges trimmed, pale green floral patterned endpapers. Condition: Near fine, front inner hinges with some repair, light wear to corners slightly heavier to head of spine. Ref: 112136 Price: HK$ 12,000
Set against the rich backdrop of 19th century Russia, recounting the story of beautiful, rebellious Anna and her doomed love affair with the impetuous cavalry officer, Count Vronsky. When Anna rejects her passionless marriage to be with her lover, their liaison scandalises society and tragedy ensues. In contrast to this narrative of love and jealousy, Tolstoy weaves the tale of Levin, a young man striving to find contentment and meaning in his life, his experiences drawn from those of Tolstoy himself. Anna Karénina was first published in serial installments from 1873 to 1877 in the periodical The Russian Messenger. Tolstoy clashed with editor Mikhail Katkov over political issues that arose in the final instalment (Tolstoy's unpopular views of volunteers going to Serbia); therefore, the novel's first complete appearance in Russian was in book form in 1878.
A complex novel in eight parts, with more than a dozen major characters dealing with themes of betrayal, faith, family, marriage, Imperial Russian society, desire, and rural versus city life.
It's been said that the plot was inspired by the story of a real woman. Anna Stepanovna Pirogova was the mistress of one of Tolstoy's friends. When she learned her lover had been neglecting her for his children's German governess, she ran away and wandered about the countryside for days.
Provenance: Stephen A. Bruel, with his signature dated 1892 to the front free endpaper.
References: Noble Objects.
Octavo (book size 19.7x14.3cm), pp. [4] viii 5-773 [1] [4 (publisher’s ads)] [2]. In publisher’s textured blue cloth, spines and upper boards with gilt lettering and ruling, gilt vignette of the House of Romanov seal to upper boards, gilt vignette of small crown to spines, all edges trimmed, pale green floral patterned endpapers. Condition: Near fine, front inner hinges with some repair, light wear to corners slightly heavier to head of spine. Ref: 112136 Price: HK$ 12,000