English Literature Appraisal

Lake English Classics: Shakespeare - As You Like It Edited by Neilson

This item is an antique or vintage hardback book, specifically an edition of William Shakespeare's 'As You Like It' published as part of the 'Lake English Classics' series. The book's cover is made of a greyish-blue cloth material, likely linen or buckram, characteristic of textbooks or classic literature editions from the late 19th or early 20th century. The title information is printed within a rectangular border on the front cover in black ink. The text reads 'Lake English Classics' at the top, followed by 'SHAKSPERE' (an antiquated spelling of Shakespeare), 'AS YOU LIKE IT', and then 'NEILSON' which likely refers to the editor, William Allan Neilson. The overall dimensions appear to be standard for a textbook of that era, estimated around 7-8 inches in height and 5 inches in width, with a thickness of approximately 1 inch, suggesting a substantive text. Condition-wise, the book shows significant signs of age and wear. The cloth cover is discolored and stained in various places, indicating prolonged use and exposure. The corners and edges, particularly the top and bottom of the spine and the corners of the front cover, are heavily worn, frayed, and possibly bumped, with some material loss visible. The spine itself is not fully visible but the front hinge appears stressed, suggesting potential detachment or looseness of the binding. There are visible scuff marks and possible dirt or dust accumulation on the surface of the cover. Despite the wear, the integrity of the cover printing remains largely intact and legible. The general appearance suggests it has been well-used over many decades, demonstrating a heavy patina consistent with an item from an older style period, possibly late Victorian or early Edwardian.