Vathek by William Beckford with illustrations by Mahlon Blaine

Vathek by William Beckford, published by The John Day Company in 1928, with illustrations by Mahlon Blaine. The cover features an intricate design, and the interior artwork complements the exotic and mysterious tone of the story. Beckford's Vathek is a Gothic novel originally published in 1786, known for its Orientalist themes and dark fantasy elements. This edition includes an introduction by Ben Ray Redman.

About the Book:

Vathek tells the story of Caliph Vathek, who, in his thirst for knowledge and power, makes a pact with supernatural forces, leading to his tragic downfall. It combines Gothic horror with fantastical elements of the Arabian Nights, making it a unique piece of 18th-century literature.

About the Illustrator:

Mahlon Blaine was an American illustrator known for his bold, surreal, and often erotic artwork. His style blends the grotesque with the fantastical, which aligns well with the eerie and exotic nature of Vathek. Blaine's illustrations often carried an air of mystery, enhancing the visual experience of the stories he worked on.

Important Information:

This 1928 edition is a special illustrated release with Blaine's artwork adding a striking visual dimension to Beckford's tale. It may appeal to collectors of Gothic literature, 1920s publications, or fans of Mahlon Blaine's distinct art style.

Condition:

The cover appears to be in good condition with some light wear and possible moisture exposure on the lower portion. The pages show some age-toning, typical for a book of this period.