Die Cenci by Percy Bysshe Shelley - German Adaptation by Alfred Wolfenstein - Signed by Wolfenstein Published by: Paul Cassirer Verlag, Berlin, 1924 Language: German Binding: Hardcover, original beige wraps with green border design. Overview: This is the German adaptation of Percy Bysshe Shelley’s renowned five-act tragedy The Cenci, translated and reimagined by Alfred Wolfenstein. This rare edition carries the personal signature of Alfred Wolfenstein, one of Germany’s eminent expressionist poets and translators. Wolfenstein was also a pioneer in translating Rimbaud into German, for which he received the first German Translator Award in 1930. The story delves into themes of tyranny, rebellion, and familial tragedy, highlighting Shelley’s powerful critique of power and corruption, adapted with a modernist expressionist lens by Wolfenstein. Notable Features: 1. Signed Copy: A rare signature of Alfred Wolfenstein makes this edition exceptionally valuable, reflecting his significance in German literary and cultural history. 2. Historical Context: Wolfenstein was a prominent pacifist and an outspoken critic of fascism. His personal history, as a persecuted artist during the Nazi regime, adds immense historical value to the book. Tragically, he ended his life in exile in Paris in 1945. 3. Publisher: Paul Cassirer Verlag was a renowned publishing house for modernist and avant-garde literature, adding to the provenance of this piece. 4. Condition: The book is in fair condition for its age. The cover shows light stains and signs of wear, especially on the spine, with minor discoloration due to age. The interior pages are clean and well-preserved, with slight tanning typical of the period. Measurements: Approx. 24 x 16.5 cm Page Count: 105 pages Provenance: This signed edition is a testament to Wolfenstein’s literary genius and his defiance of authoritarianism through art and expression. It is an excellent addition to collections focusing on German Expressionism, literary history, or rare signed works by persecuted artists. This unique item represents a profound intersection of literature, art, and history, making it a highly sought-after collector’s piece.