The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand, First Edition, First Printing, 1943

Rand, Ayn. The Fountainhead. Indianapolis: Bobbs-Merrill, 1943. First edition, first state. Octavo. Rebound in full Moroccan leather with Rand’s gilt stamped facsimile signature on the front board, gilt titles and stamps to the spine, and a new matching archival cloth slipcase. 

Presented is a first edition, first state printing of The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. The Fountainhead is Ayn Rand's best-selling and unforgettable celebration of the individual spirit. This stated first edition book has been beautifully rebound in full maroon Moroccan leather with Rand’s gilt stamped facsimile signature on the front board, gilt titles and stamps to the spine, and a new matching archival cloth slipcase. 

From 1935-1943, Rand worked as a secretary in an architectural firm, during which time she wrote The Fountainhead, her first Objectivist novel and her first bestseller. The book follows the protagonist Howard Roark, a young architect struggling to stay true to his own vision against more conventional and mainstream ideas.  As the original dust jacket explained, "This book is based on a challenging belief in the importance of selfishness, on the provocative idea that man's ego is the fountainhead of human progress."

Initially rejected by twelve publishers, and firing one over publicity plans, Rand finally found a publisher in Bobbs-Merrill. She released The Fountainhead in 1943. Just 7500 copies were initially printed in this first print run. Despite harsh criticism, the book gradually found its audience and became one of the high spots of American literature. Rand later would also write the screenplay for the film version of the novel, released in 1949 and starring Gary Cooper and Patricia Neal.

CONDITION:

Very good condition. Octavo. 754pp. Copyright page states First Edition.  Inside pages are in very good condition.A very nice true first edition of this great novel. Rebound in full maroon Moroccan leather with Rand's facsimile signature gilt embossed on front. Raised bands, gilt stamps, and titles to spine. New end paper. Presented with a new matching red cloth archival slipcase, with an image of the original dust jacket design inlaid on the front.

Dimensions: 8 3/4" H x 6 1/2" W x 1 3/4" D (Book). 9 1/4" H x 6 1/2" W x 2 1/4" D (Clamshell).