FRANCISCA REINA (SIGNED) / INA COOLBRITH'S PRESENTATION COPY
Boston: The Gorham Press, 1908. First Edition. 44 (1) pp. SIGNED/INSCRIBED by INA COOLBRITH in ink on the title page: "To my dear girl Josie Zeller from her friend Ina Coolbrith / Dec. 1907". Illustrated from original illustrations by Maynard Dixon, including the front cover, two paintings and several drawings. Also illustrated from drawings by Leslie Hunter and Herbert Igoe (from Sunset Magazine) and photographs by Frances Reid McCulloch. Decorated wrappers. 6 1/4" x 9 1/2". Slip of paper glued to title page reads: "FRANCISCA REINA is published under the auspices of the Pacific Coast Women's Press Association for the benefit of its honored member, Miss Ina Coolbrith." This is a profusely illustrated book of poetry concerning the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire and its aftermath.This signed copy is one of a kind. Rare.
Ina Coolbrith (1841-1928) was the first California Poet Laureate, writer, librarian and leading San Francisco literary figure. With Bret Harte and Charles Warren Stoddard, she formed the "California Trinity" associated with Overland Monthly magazine. While Oakland City Librarian, she mentored and encouraged young Jack London and Isadora Duncan. She lost all her books and papers in 1906 when her San Francisco home burned to the ground. This book was one of several efforts to aid in her recovery. Josie Zeller was Coolbrith's longtime companion and caretaker.
Maynard Dixon (1875-1946) was a renowned artist, known primarily for his paintings of the American Southwest. He was born in Fresno, and moved to San Francisco in 1893. He studied with Arthur Matthews at the California School of Design. While a very young man, he worked in The City as an illustrator for Sunset and Overland Monthly magazines and illustrated books. His drawings for this book are typical of his work in this period.
A Very Good Plus or better copy (Some soiling and edgewear of the covers; interior fine), now in a clear 4mil mylar protective envelope. ALWAYS FREE SHIPPING of our books in boxes, via media mail, to any United States address. Very Good Plus / 4-mil clear mylar envelope. Item #2640
Price: $350.00