A characterful vintage hardback copy of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot, published by Faber and Faber Limited, London, and bound in the original cloth with the iconic red skating-cat illustration.
First published in 1939, this example is from the fifth impression, August 1943, printed during the wartime period by Western Printing Services Ltd., Bristol.
This copy is distinguished by a period presentation inscription, giving it added narrative and collectible appeal beyond a standard reading copy.
Inscription
The front free endpaper bears a neatly written handwritten inscription, reading in full:
“Old Boy! I thought this little book of poems might appeal to you. Anyway, they remind me irresistibly of ‘old dissolute trousers’, which in itself is every reason why you should have it — Tony.”
This is a personal presentation inscription, not in Eliot’s hand, but one that captures the humour and literary sensibility associated with the book. Such inscriptions are increasingly sought after by collectors as authentic records of mid-20th-century private literary exchange.
Edition Details
🌿 Hardback cloth-bound volume
🌿 Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats
🌿 By T. S. Eliot
🌿 Faber and Faber Limited, 24 Russell Square, London
🌿 First published September 1939
🌿 This copy: Fifth impression, August 1943
🌿 Printed in Great Britain by Western Printing Services Ltd., Bristol
Condition
🌿 Original cloth boards with visible age toning and surface marking
🌿 Spine firm and square, lettering legible
🌿 Text block complete and sound
🌿 Pages age-toned, consistent with wartime paper
🌿 Inscription clear and stable
Overall good vintage condition, honest and unforced, with wear appropriate to a 1940s hardback that has been carefully kept.
Collectability
While not a first edition, this copy is elevated by its wartime printing and lively period inscription, making it particularly appealing to collectors of Eliot, Faber & Faber publications, and inscribed literary books.
The enduring popularity of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats — later adapted into Cats: The Musical — ensures continued cross-interest from poetry, theatre, and cultural history collectors.
Our Antique Forager Ethos
We source antique and vintage pieces for their craftsmanship, character and individuality, selecting only those that stand out and carry a story worthy of passing on.
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