George Newnes, Arthur Conan Doyle - The Strand Magazine – Original Serial Appearances – 2 Volumes - 1895-1896

A particularly collectible pair of early volumes of The Strand Magazine, featuring original first serial appearances of works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle— celebrated creator of Sherlock Holmes.

Published by George Newnes, London, the collection comprises Volume IX (January–June 1895) and Volume XII (July–December 1896), both dating from the magazine’s golden age. Volume IX contains the first three stories of The Exploits of Brigadier Gerard, introducing Doyle’s memorable Napoleonic cavalry officer to readers in their original illustrated magazine format, before their collection in book form in 1896. Volume XII contains the concluding instalments of Rodney Stone, Doyle’s historical novel set in Regency England, combining mystery, aristocratic society and the world of bare-knuckle boxing. These original serial publications are particularly appealing to collectors of Doyle and Victorian literary first appearances.

The volumes further offer an exceptional selection of illustrated Victorian literature and cultural history. Highlights include Grant Allen’s pioneering crime fiction An African Millionaire, medical mysteries by L. T. Meade and Clifford Halifax, and illustrated interviews with Jules Verne and Sarah Bernhardt. Numerous engravings, portraits and illustrations accompany articles on early photography, scientific discoveries, inventions, travel and exploration. Both volumes are preserved in handsome contemporary half-leather bindings with burgundy cloth boards, raised spine bands, decorative gilt tooling and contrasting black title labels.

Condition: Very good to fine overall. Both volumes retain their attractive contemporary bindings, with minor age-related rubbing to the leather spines, joints and corners. Gilt decoration and lettering remain well preserved. Internally very good, with occasional light foxing and minor toning, particularly to preliminary pages. A handsome and well-preserved pair of original Victorian literary magazines. Please examine the photographs for further details.