Around Theatres by Max Beerbohm
Rupert Hart-Davis (Publisher) · Books & Media > Antiquarian & Collectible
Era / Decade
1953 (Mid-century publishing era)
Material
Hardcover bound in green buckram or textured cloth, featuring gilt lettering and a red title label on the spine.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The spine shows visible fading (sunning), which is common for this green pigment. The gilt at the foot of the spine (Rupert Hart-Davis) is crisp, but the red label at the head is slightly worn. Hand-holding suggests the binding is firm, but page edges likely show toning.
Demand Level
Niche. Highly desirable for collectors of Beerbohm or bibliophiles interested in the 'Rupert Hart-Davis' catalog, but moves slowly on general marketplaces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (Low: $20, Mid: $35, High: $55 if a first edition with dust jacket)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $60.00 (for an original mid-century edition in similar condition)
Comparable Sales
Recent sales for the 1953 Rupert Hart-Davis edition without a dust jacket have ranged from $22 to $38. Copies with a dust jacket can exceed $75 - $100 depending on the jacket's condition.
Description
Around Theatres by Max Beerbohm, published by Rupert Hart-Davis. This is the 1953 single-volume edition of Beerbohm's collected theatrical reviews for the Saturday Review. The volume is bound in its signature green cloth with a gilded red spine label. Measuring approximately 8.5 x 6 inches, this work is a cornerstone of 20th-century drama criticism, written with the characteristic wit of the 'Incomparable Max'.
Key Features
Author status (Max Beerbohm is highly collectible), prestigious publisher (Rupert Hart-Davis was known for high-quality book production), and specific subject matter (theater history/criticism) which creates a niche but loyal market.
Authenticity Indicators
Publisher imprint 'Rupert Hart-Davis' at the base of the spine matches known typography for the 1953 edition. Binding style and material match the era. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant sun-fading on the spine (color shifted from a deep teal/green to a lighter sage). Minor fraying at the spine head. Most notably, the missing dust jacket significantly reduces the value for serious book collectors.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Global reach for collectors), Etsy (Vintage/Aesthetic appeal), or specialized sites like AbeBooks/Biblio if you have a seller account.
Selling Tips
Highlight the publisher and the author's name in the title. Take high-resolution photos of the spine label and any foxing on the page edges. Use Media Mail for shipping to keep costs low. Mention 'Mid-Century Modern' aesthetic appeal for those who buy books for styling.