Bacon, Peggy (1895-1987) The true philosopher and other cat tales; illustrated with etchings by the author. Boston: Four Seas Company, 1919. First edition. 55 page, 13 unnumbered leaves of plates; 20 cm. A near fine copy in a lightly chipped example of the original dustwrapper. Very rare in jacket.

     The first book by this prolific artist, published when she was 24 years old. Centered on cats -- a subject that would dominate her illustration work throughout her entire career -- the volume features nine stories and thirteen plates after drypoint engravings by the artist, some of her earliest work. One tale, "The Queen's Cat," has been much anthologized. The volume was published in very limited number by a press associated with the literary avant garde -- its other productions include early works by William Faulker, Gertrude Stein, William Carlos Williams, Conrad Aiken, and Yvor Winters. Although the book surfaces occasionally, the dustwrapper, designed by the artist, is seldom seen.