Contemporary Fairy Tale Appraisal

A Modern Cinderella book

The item is an antique or vintage hardcover book titled 'A Modern Cinderella' by Louisa M. Alcott, as prominently displayed on the front cover. The physical characteristics indicate a relatively small book, possibly a novelette or a children's story, with a light blue cloth binding. The cover design is quite elaborate, featuring a central rectangular illustration bordered by ornate gold-colored, possibly embossed or gilded, scrolling motifs and floral patterns. The title 'A MODERN CINDERELLA' is within a light blue, cartouche-like frame at the top center, with 'BY' and 'LOUISA M. ALCOTT' below it, also in gold lettering. The central illustration depicts a young woman in what appears to be a domestic setting, possibly a kitchen. She is dressed in a modest, patterned dress, with her dark hair neatly styled. She stands at a wooden table, engaged in some activity, possibly writing or tending to small items. The background includes what look like kitchen cabinets and a patterned wallpaper or wall covering with floral designs. The overall color palette of the illustration is warm, with browns, muted yellows, creams, and hints of green and pink from the floral elements. Visible condition issues include significant wear, particularly along the edges and corners of the cover, indicating its age and frequent handling. The blue cloth cover shows some discoloration, scuffs, and areas where the color has faded or worn away. The gold gilding on the decorative elements appears somewhat rubbed and less vibrant in places, though still largely intact. The spine, although not fully visible, likely shares similar signs of wear. The paper of the illustration and the surrounding patterned sections also shows age-related toning and possibly some light staining or foxing, consistent with a book from the late 19th or early 20th century. There are no obvious tears or major structural damages visible from the front cover, but the overall impression is one of an item that has been well-used and cherished. The craftsmanship, though showing age, suggests a quality production typical of illustrated books from its era, with detailed cover art and potentially high-quality printing within. This style of book binding and illustration was common during the Victorian or Edwardian periods.