Jane Eyre. Illustrated by E. Stuart Hardy. London: Collins, [1920]. Handsomely bound in quarter morocco over marbled boards, with raised bands, gilt titles, and an elegant floral motif stamped on the spine. A fine, bright copy.

First published in October 1847, Jane Eyre was an instant success, prompting rapid reprints—second and third editions followed in January and April 1848. Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece stands as a cornerstone of Victorian literature and a pivotal work in the evolution of the English novel.

Evelyn Stuart Hardy (1870–1935), born in Clifton, Bristol, into a family of artists, contributed illustrations to numerous acclaimed titles.