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Offered here is an original matched pair of American Art-Union illustrated folio editions of Washington Irving’s most famous works:
• Rip Van Winkle (1848)
• The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1849)
Both works are illustrated, designed, and etched by Felix Octavius Carr Darley, one of the most important American illustrators of the 19th century, and were published for members of the American Art-Union.
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Contents & Completeness
Rip Van Winkle (1848)
✔ Complete text
✔ Original title page and Art-Union imprint
✔ All 6 original full-page etched plates present
✔ Terminal note and blanks present
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1849)
✔ Complete text
✔ Original title page and imprint
✔ All 7 original full-page etched plates present
✔ Postscript and blanks present
Total: 13 original Darley etchings — no plates missing
Physical Format & Condition
• Original disbound folio format, as commonly encountered with American Art-Union issues
• Includes the original Art-Union cover/wrapper, as shown
• Moderate foxing, edge wear, and age-related toning throughout
• Plates remain well-impressed with clear line work
• No modern rebinding, no facsimiles, no later restrikes
This is an honest, untouched survivor set, not broken apart for resale and not cosmetically altered.
Collector Notes
• These two titles were issued consecutively by the American Art-Union and are frequently found separated
• Offered here as a matched, complete pair, which is increasingly difficult to assemble
• Highly desirable to collectors of:
• Washington Irving
• Felix O. C. Darley
• American illustration
• Hudson River School–era Americana
Condition Disclaimer
These items are second-hand and over 175 years old. Any minor foxing, toning, edge wear, or imperfections should be expected due to age and handling. Please review all photos carefully and feel free to ask questions before purchasing.
Shipping
Will be carefully packed flat, insured, and shipped with signature confirmation.
Local pickup welcome if applicable.
Final seller note
This pair is priced to reflect completeness, integrity, and historical value, while remaining open to reasonable offers from collectors and dealers. I am happy to work with serious buyers.
Comes with original cover pictured in the last photo.
