A. E. (George Russell). Collected Poems (Two Original Drawings)

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Macmillan and Company: London, 1926.  Second Edition.

Original drawing of a beachside with background hills on the title page, signed as both George Russell and “A.E.” along with another original drawing of a hillside village in the table of contents, signed “A.E.”

Russell was an Irish writer, poet, artist, and mystic. He is best known today for his involvement in the Irish Literary Renaissance and his influential role in Dublin’s cultural scene at the turn of the 20th century. “Considered one of Ireland's foremost writers, AE was also known for promoting new literary talent. He was the first to publish James Joyce and PL Travers - the author of Mary Poppins - and was a longtime friend and collaborator of W. B. Yeats. Russell founded the Irish National Theatre Society, now known as the Abbey Theatre, and wrote its first play.”

“Although Russell never considered art as a career, such was his talent that he became recognized as one of the best painters in Ireland. When leaders of the United States arts community curated a major exhibition of European art in New York in 1913 only 3 Irish painters, including AE, were invited to contribute. On the poster for the Manhattan event, the greatest exhibition of European Art ever, the only Irish name was Russell – alongside artists like Monet, Cezanne, and Van Gogh.”

 Previous owner’s bookplate, spine tips frayed.  Very Good.