£3,950.00
A copy of Vachel Lindsay’s breakthrough work The Congo, distinguished by a substantial signed poetic inscription dated 1915 that offers a rare direct expression of the author’s voice.Octavo. Original publisher’s decorated cloth in yellow and blue, the distinctive design emblematic of the period.
Featuring an extended autograph inscription by the author, signed Vachel Lindsay, dated Jan. 16, 1915, Springfield, Ill. A very presentable example with light, expected wear; internally clean.
Year: 1914
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: The Macmillan Company, New York
The book that made Vachel Lindsay famous. The Congo established him as a national figure and a pioneer of performance poetry, a work whose public readings became legendary across America.
This copy is elevated by a long, carefully written poetic inscription signed by Lindsay, dated January 16, 1915, and noting Springfield, Illinois. Rather than a routine presentation, the author provides a reflective verse, giving collectors direct contact with his voice and persona.
Substantial inscriptions from Lindsay are significantly scarcer than simple signatures and are strongly preferred by collectors.
This is Vachel Lindsay’s most celebrated work, signed in full and further distinguished by an original author’s drawing. The combination of autograph and artwork creates strong visual and historical appeal, making this example far more desirable than standard signed copies. Material of this nature is notably scarce and occupies a higher tier in collecting terms, with strong appeal to both institutional and private collectors.
