David Balfour by Robert Louis Stevenson, Illustrated by N.C. Wyeth, 1930

Stevenson, Robert Louis. David Balfour. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1930. First edition thus illustrated by N. C. Wyeth. In original black cloth boards with full color paste-down illustration, gilt titles to the spine, and illustrated endpapers. Numerous full-page illustrations throughout. 

Presented is Robert Louis Stevenson’s David Balfour. First published in 1883, this 1930 printing is illustrated by famed 20th century artist and illustrator, N. C. Wyeth. The book was published by Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York. The book is presented in its original black hardcover boards with gilt stamped titles on the spine, a full color front paste-down illustration, illustrated endpapers, and numerous full color illustrations by Wyeth throughout. 

A sequel to Kidnapped, David Balfour was first published under the title Catriona, and appeared serially in the magazine Atalanta, from December 1892 to September 1893. It was then published in book form by Cassell and Company, in Scotland, in 1893. In the United States, the novel was published in the same year, but often titled David Balfour to emphasize the continuation of the protagonist's story from Kidnapped. The book is a direct sequel to Kidnapped and follows David Balfour’s life after the events of the first novel.

The novel begins with David Balfour seeking justice for his friend Alan Breck Stewart by trying to clear his name in the Appin murder case.  Set in 18th-century Scotland and later in Holland, the story follows the titular character David as he navigates the treacherous world of political intrigue, betrayal, and legal manipulation. Along the way, he befriends, and eventually falls in love with, Catriona Drummond. The novel blends historical fiction with romance, highlighting David’s growth into a more mature and principled man. Though it was initially not as popular as its predecessor Kidnapped, modern editions often carried both titles together, which helped boost its popularity.

Stevenson's book of justice, personal growth, and adventure is brought to life in this printing through the vivid and evocative illustrations of Newell Convers Wyeth. Wyeth (1882–1945) is considered one of America's greatest illustrators. He was the pupil of artist Howard Pyle and created over 3,000 paintings over his lifetime. He also illustrated many books, primarily for publisher Charles Scribner's Sons, which accelerated his career. Wyeth worked primarily as a realist painter.

CONDITION: 

In good condition, considering age and past use. In original pictorial black cloth boards with full color paste-down illustration on the front, gilt titles to the spine, decorative illustration endpapers. Boards have light scuffs and scratches. Lightly split at back board, with tear to the back endpaper at joint. Color to the pastedown is still vibrant. Faded gilt on the spine. The title is not visible on the spine, but “Illustrated by N.C. Wyeth” is still visible. Illustrated endpapers have light toning. Internally, the paper is quite clean and healthy. Frontispiece illustration and multiple full page-illustrations in color by N. C. Wyeth throughout. 

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.