A Book Of Pleasures (1960 - 256 Pages) + A Book Of Beauty (1953 - 256 Pages) + A Book Of Delights (1957 - 256 Pages)
By John Hadfield
Published by Hulton Press: London
Includes All 3 Volumes With Dustjackets
"John Hadfield's A Book of Beauty (Hulton Press, London, 1953), A Book of Delights (Edward Hulton, 1957), and A Book of Pleasures (Vista Books, 1960) together form a charming and visually rich trilogy of mid-20th century anthologies celebrating art, literature, and the enduring pleasures of human experience. Elegantly produced and profusely illustrated, these volumes bring together a carefully curated selection of prose, poetry, and fine art reproductions, reflecting Hadfield's refined editorial eye and deep appreciation for cultural heritage. Each book stands alone in theme yet complements the others, creating a cohesive set that explores beauty in its aesthetic, emotional, and sensory dimensions.
The volumes are particularly notable for their high-quality colour plates and thoughtful juxtapositions of text and image, drawing on a wide range of sources from classical painting to literary excerpts spanning centuries. A Book of Beauty focuses on visual and poetic expressions of grace and form; A Book of Delights broadens the scope to include moments of wonder, curiosity, and artistic inspiration; while A Book of Pleasures turns toward the intimate joys of life, from simple sensory experiences to cultivated tastes. The result is a set that is as much a visual delight as it is a literary companion, embodying the post-war publishing tradition of accessible yet sophisticated art books for the home.
Presented here as a complete three-volume collection with their original dustjackets, these works capture the distinctive style of the Hulton Press and its associated imprints during a golden era of illustrated publishing. Their decorative bindings and enduring appeal make them both attractive display pieces and engaging reading material, offering a window into mid-century tastes and the timeless appeal of art and literature. This set will appeal to collectors of illustrated books, lovers of classic art anthologies, and those drawn to beautifully produced volumes celebrating culture, aesthetics, and the pleasures of everyday life."
Dustjackets with general wear, chipping some loss etc as shown. No inscriptions. All books are clean and unmarked. Very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
