Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet.

Hodder & Stoughton, London, 1912

Limited Edition de Luxe, one of 250 copies signed by William Hatherell.

Description: Original full vellum, and gilt-stamped title and with gilt lettering and an elaborate gilt embossed balcony scene on the upper cover, gilt title to spine. Quarto: 29 × 24 cm; pp. iii, [5], 206, [2]. Top edge gilt, others uncut. 22 tipped in colour plates.

Ref.: Latimore, Haskell, 1970

Condition: Slight bow to front board, lacking silk ties (as often), binding els fine, internally excellent.

Notes: When this edition was first released, it was a major competitor in the already crowded market of 'illustrated Shakespeares'. While contemporary illustrators such as Arthur Rackham and Edmund Dulac often leaned towards the fantastical and grotesque, the 1912 edition of Romeo and Juliet sought a different psychological register. Its significance lies in its commitment to 'pictorial realism' and romantic atmosphere. It definitively bridges the gap between the classical Shakespearean tradition and the modern visual language of theatre for its audience in 1912.

Hatherell approached Shakespeare not as a fairy tale, but as a historical documentary. His training at the Royal Academy Schools and his background in journalistic illustration resulted in images characterised by substantial weight and theatrical lighting. The 22 tipped-in plates are notable for their 'impasto' appearance; unlike Rackham's transparent washes, Hatherell's reproductions retain the appearance of opaque gouache and heavy oil, creating a sombre, rich texture that is fitting for a tragedy. His visual programme focuses on the emotional highlights of the drama: the balcony scene, the intimacy of the lovers' encounters, and the pathos of the final tomb sequence.

While most original illustrations for gift books from this period were sold individually to private collectors, the Tate Gallery in London acquired the frontispiece depicting Juliet on the balcony due to its artistic merit. It remains in their collection (ref. N02941) as the prime example of late Victorian literary painting - a rare honour for a commercial book illustration from that decade.