White Buildings
New York: Boni and Liveright, 1926. First Edition. Hardcover. 1st edition. The title page is a cancel, with Allen Tate’s name (who wrote the Foreword) spelled correctly. One of Crane’s own copies of his first book (the only one that’s ever surfaced, and the only one that’s likely to) with his bookplate and his ownership signature (in ink) “Hart Crane, Aug ‘31” (he drowned in 1932). This copy should not be confused with 1st editions that just have his bookplate for evidence of ownership, as his family (with all the integrity of hyenas) sold bookplates after his death. Fine in a beautiful dustjacket with the spine faded half a shade else fine condition, quality that parts the clouds to let the Sun shine down, and quite a rare jacket in such condition. Since the title page was canceled immediately, Crane logically opted for author’s copies with his friend Tate’s name spelled properly. Heavy. Singular. Best copy in the world, so far. Fine / near fine. Item #92
Price: $75,000.00