The Collector's Whatnot

This hardcover first edition shows significant wear, particularly along the spine and edges, indicative of its ex-library status. The cover exhibits some discoloration and fraying, and there is no dust jacket present. Despite these flaws, the binding remains intact, and the pages are free from inscriptions or signatures, maintaining its readability and historical value.

"The Collector's Whatnot," first published in 1923 by Houghton Mifflin Company, is a unique compendium on the art of collecting antiques, both ancient and modern. Compiled by the pseudonymous authors Cornelius Obenchain Van Loot, Milton Kilgallen, and Murgatroyd Elphinstone, this book is actually the work of renowned writers Booth Tarkington, Kenneth L. Roberts, and Hugh Kahler. This first edition is a rare find, offering insight into the satirical and humorous world of antique collecting. The book, published in Boston and New York, is a testament to the early 20th-century fascination with collectibles and the often amusing advice offered to collectors. This edition is particularly notable for its charming cover design and its historical context as a reflection of the era's literary style. While the book shows signs of wear typical of ex-library copies, it remains a valuable piece for collectors interested in literary history and satire.