Alfred Tennyson — The May Queen

London, Sampson Low, Son & Co, 1861. First edition. Cloth. The first edition thus of this beautiful lyric poem by Tennyson, being the first edition to be illustrated by Eleanor Vere Boyle. The first edition of this work to be illustrated by E. V. B.Eleanor Vere Boyle was an eminent Scottish artist of the Victorian era. Her style was influenced by the Pre-Raphaelites, her work being much admired by Rossetti, and she was one of the first women artists to be recognised for her achievements.Illustrated in-text throughout with engravings. Collated, complete. 'The May Queen' is a charming poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson, celebrating the traditions of May Queens. This is a lovely lyrical poem meditating on beauty and wasted youth.Alfred Tennyson was the Poet Laureate for most of Queen Victoria's reign, securing great success during his lifetime. His poems still live on, with him becoming one of the most popular British poets ever. In the original publisher's cloth binding. Externally, generally smart, a little rubbed. Minor bumping to the head and tail of the spine and to the extremities, with a small amount of loss. Front hinge is a little strained but remains firm. Prior owner's gift inscription to the recto of the front endpaper. Internally, generally firmly bound. Pages are bright and generally clean with scattered spots and handling marks. Good . Ill.: Eleanor Vere Boyle. Good .