A Royal Receipt Unveils a Literary Secret

May 01, 2025

A Royal Receipt Unveils a Literary Secret

Jane Austen, who openly despised the Prince Regent for his scandalous behaviour, was ironically connected to him through his early purchase of Sense and Sensibility in 1811. Despite her reluctance, she dedicated Emma to him in 1815 at his request, crafting an insincere inscription that reflected her disdain.

The British monarchy's archives are a treasure trove of historical documents, brimming with stories of royalty and their ties to the world beyond the palace. Among the latest treasures to surface is an 1811 bill that uncovers a surprising link between Jane Austen, England’s beloved novelist, and the Prince Regent, the future King George IV. Dated October 28, 1811, this document reveals that the Prince was the first recorded buyer of Austen’s debut novel, Sense and Sensibility, snapping it up for 15 shillings—roughly £35 today—just two days before the book’s first advertisements hit the press. This find showcases the monarchy’s love for literature and exposes the tangled relationship between Austen and the scandalous royal she couldn’t stand.

On October 28, 1811, the first copy of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility was sold to Britain’s Prince Regent, later known as George IV. Remarkably, the Prince purchased the novel two days before its first advertisements appeared, as uncovered by a receipt found in 2018 within the royal archives. This discovery highlights the surprising early connection between Austen and the controversial royal despite her well-documented disdain for him.

When Sense and Sensibility hit shelves in 1811, Jane Austen was a nobody, publishing anonymously as “A Lady.” Her identity was a well-guarded secret, yet somehow, the Prince Regent became the first documented reader to own her novel. This revelation from the royal archives is nothing short of astonishing. It hints that the royal household had a keen ear for emerging literary talent, even from unknown authors. The bill’s existence also speaks to the era’s obsessive record-keeping—imagine logging a single book purchase! How did the Prince get his hands on the novel so fast? Was his librarian, James Stanier Clarke, tipped off about Austen’s brilliance? While the details remain elusive, this archival clue ties Austen’s fledgling career to the glittering world of royalty.

The Prince Who Scandalised England

The Prince Regent, later George IV, was the Regency era’s ultimate bad boy. His extravagant spending, string of mistresses, and rocky relationship with his father, King George III, made him a lightning rod for gossip and disapproval. In the conservative English countryside, his antics were downright scandalous. Jane Austen, whose sharp novels dissected excess and immorality, was no fan. Her letters drip with contempt for the Prince, with one scholar calling her view of him scathing. So, the irony is delicious: the man Austen despised was not only her first known reader but, years later, a vocal fan of her work. The 1811 bill transforms this dislike into a juicy historical paradox.

 

Fast-forward to 1815, and Austen’s Emma carries a dedication to the Prince Regent that’s practically a literary eye-roll. 

Fast-forward to 1815, and Austen’s Emma carries a dedication to the Prince Regent that’s practically a literary eye-roll. The inscription—“To his Royal Highness, the Prince Regent, this work is, by His Royal Highness’s Permission, most Respectfully Dedicated by his Royal Highness’s Dutiful and Obedient Humble Servant”—is so stiff and formal it’s been dubbed one of Austen’s worst sentences. A scholar winced at its awkwardness, and for good reason, Austen didn’t write it out of admiration. The Prince, via his librarian James Stanier Clarke, demanded the dedication. Clarke, who kept up a chatty correspondence with Austen, even pitched the idea of her writing a novel about the royal family. Ever the rebel, Austen shot it down, refusing to let royalty dictate her pen.

Letters, Gossip, and a Royal Fanboy

Clarke’s letters to Austen are a window into this odd literary courtship. He gushed over her novels and worked hard to tie her to the Prince Regent’s orbit. For Austen, royal attention was a mixed bag: it validated her growing fame but meant cosying up to a man she found morally bankrupt. By 1815, London was buzzing with rumours that the Prince admired Austen’s talent. Did he sense she’d become a literary legend? Probably not, but his fandom—however unwelcome—shows a side of the Prince that’s more cultured than his party-boy reputation suggests. Through this bill and Clarke’s letters, the royal archives paint a vivid picture of a writer grappling with unwanted admiration.

The 1811 bill also pulls back the curtain on Austen’s world as a struggling author. Publishing Sense and Sensibility at her own expense was a gamble, and at 15 shillings, the novel’s price was modest, fitting for a debut by an unknown. Yet every sale counted for Austen, who was building her name and financial independence. That the Prince Regent’s purchase came before the book’s official buzz suggests her work was already making waves in elite circles. This aligns with the Regency era’s booming literary scene, where novels were all the rage among the upper crust. The royal archives capture this cultural pulse, showing how even the monarchy was swept up in the novel craze.

Why the Archives Keep Surprising Us

The monarchy’s archives are a gift that keeps giving, and the 1811 bill proves their storytelling power. It doesn’t just spotlight Austen’s early days; it reveals the messy interplay between literature and royalty in Regency England. The Prince Regent, flaws and all played a cameo in Austen’s rise, first as a reader, then as an overbearing patron. His early grab of Sense and Sensibility and later obsession with her work hinted at the legacy she’d forge. Austen might have cringed at his fandom, but the archives show her novels reached even the most unlikely readers, proving their universal pull.

Ultimately, the 1811 bill is a sparkling footnote in Jane Austen’s epic story. It captures the bizarre collision of her literary ascent with the notorious Prince Regent, a man she detested yet couldn’t entirely dodge. With the grudging Emma dedication and Clarke’s eager letters, Austen navigates fame, principle, and royal pressure with her trademark wit. As the monarchy’s archives keep spilling their secrets, they deepen our love for Austen’s world and its colourful cast—from countryside spinsters to scandalous princes. Her novels, not the palace, ultimately stole the show.

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The Timeless Elegance of Spode Rome Porcelain

April 30, 2025

The Timeless Elegance of Spode Rome Porcelain

The world of Chawton extends far beyond the realm of literature and books. 

Among the many treasures we hold dear is porcelain, particularly pieces that carry a rich and fascinating history. One such example is the iconic Spode Rome porcelain series, a collection that embodies its time's artistry, craftsmanship, and historical reverence. Produced by the renowned English Spode factory since 1811, this series is a testament to the enduring allure of Neoclassicism and a masterpiece of decorative art that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

A Journey Through History and Inspiration

The Spode Rome series was born when Europe was deeply enamoured with the grandeur of antiquity. The early 19th century, marked by the Neoclassical movement, saw a resurgence of interest in ancient Greece and Rome's art, architecture, and culture. This fascination was not merely academic but permeated every facet of creative expression, from painting and sculpture to decorative arts like porcelain. The Spode Rome series perfectly encapsulates this cultural moment, drawing inspiration from Rome's classical landscapes and monumental architecture.

At the heart of the series’ design are two engravings from the album Views of Rome and its Vicinity, published between 1796 and 1798 by J. Merigot and R. Edwards. This collection of prints offered detailed representations of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, serving as a vital source of inspiration for artists and artisans of the era. The engravings captured the imagination of those who longed to connect with the splendour of ancient Rome, and their influence is vividly apparent in the intricate patterns that adorn Spode Rome porcelain. By translating these engravings into porcelain decoration, the Spode factory created a tangible link to the past, allowing collectors to bring the majesty of Rome into their homes.

The Artistry of the Rome Pattern

The Spode Rome series is distinguished by its meticulous and artistic interpretation of classical Roman landscapes. Unlike a strictly accurate depiction of Rome’s urban environment, the patterns in this series take creative liberties, prioritising aesthetic harmony over historical precision. One of the most striking elements of the design is the portrayal of Trajan’s Column, a monumental structure erected in 113 AD to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s victories. In the Spode Rome pattern, the column is presented as a standalone feature, detached from its surroundings in the Roman Forum. This artistic choice reflects the conventions of the 18th and 19th centuries when artisans and graphic artists often adapted historical subjects to suit their medium's compositional and decorative needs.

The delicate engravings of Roman ruins, arches, and columns are rendered with exquisite detail, capturing the romanticised vision of antiquity that captivated the Neoclassical imagination.

The result is a pattern that is both evocative and timeless. The delicate engravings of Roman ruins, arches, and columns are rendered with exquisite detail, capturing the romanticised vision of antiquity that captivated the Neoclassical imagination. The interplay of light and shadow, the careful arrangement of architectural elements, and the soft, monochromatic palette contribute to the series’ understated elegance. Each piece of Spode Rome porcelain, whether a plate, teacup, or serving dish, tells a story of a bygone era, inviting the viewer to reflect on the enduring legacy of Rome.

A Symbol of Status and Sophistication

The Spode Rome series was a favourite among Europe’s elite. Its sophisticated design and impeccable craftsmanship made it a sought-after choice for the aristocracy and the burgeoning wealthy bourgeoisie, who saw in it an opportunity to elevate their interiors with objects of cultural and historical significance. Dining tables adorned with Spode Rome porcelain became a statement of refinement, signalling the owner’s appreciation for art, history, and the classical world.

The series’s popularity was not limited to its aesthetic appeal. Spode’s reputation for producing durable, high-quality porcelain ensured that these pieces were beautiful and practical for everyday use. The combination of functionality and artistry made Spode Rome a staple in elegant households, where it was used to serve everything from lavish banquets to intimate tea gatherings. Over time, the series became a collector’s item, cherished for its beauty and connection to a pivotal moment in decorative arts history.

The Rome series is a shining example of how art, history, and craftsmanship can converge to create something extraordinary.

Enduring Appeal in the Modern Era

More than two centuries after its introduction, the Spode Rome series remains a paragon of porcelain craftsmanship. Its enduring popularity among collectors and antiquarians speaks to the timeless. Two centuries after its debut, Spode Rome porcelain continues to enchant collectors and antiquarians alike. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend time, offering a glimpse into the Neoclassical fascination with antiquity while remaining relevant in contemporary contexts. Whether displayed in a glass cabinet, used for special occasions, or passed down as a family heirloom, each piece carries a sense of history and artistry that resonates with those who value the intersection of beauty and heritage.

The Rome series is a shining example of how art, history, and craftsmanship can converge to create something extraordinary. The patterns, rooted in classical engravings, evoke the spirit of an era when the legacy of ancient Rome was a wellspring of inspiration. Yet, their elegance and versatility remain as captivating today as they were in the early 19th century. For collectors, owning a piece of Spode Rome porcelain is not merely about acquiring an object but about preserving a fragment of cultural history—a tangible connection to the ideals and aspirations of a bygone age.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

The Spode factory, established in 1770 by Josiah Spode, has long been synonymous with excellence in porcelain production. The Rome series is among its most celebrated creations, embodying the company’s commitment to innovation and quality. By marrying traditional techniques with artistic vision, Spode transformed porcelain from a utilitarian material into a canvas for storytelling. The Rome series, with its intricate engravings and classical motifs, is a testament to the skill and creativity of the artisans who brought it to life.

Each piece in the series is a work of art, meticulously crafted to ensure both beauty and durability. Creating Spode Rome porcelain involved multiple stages, from shaping the clay to applying the transfer-printed designs and firing the pieces at high temperatures. The result is a product that is as robust as it is refined, capable of withstanding the rigours of daily use while retaining its visual splendour.

For Chawton, the Spode Rome series represents the treasure we cherish—a piece of history that tells a story through its craftsmanship and design. 

Conclusion

The Spode Rome porcelain series is more than a tableware collection; it celebrates history, art, and the enduring allure of classical antiquity. Inspired by the engravings of Views of Rome and its Vicinity, the series captures the romanticised vision of Rome that defined the Neoclassical era. Its patterns, with their delicate depictions of Trajan’s Column and other Roman landmarks, invite us to reflect on the timeless beauty of the ancient world.

For Rambler, the Spode Rome series represents the treasure we cherish—a piece of history that tells a story through its craftsmanship and design. Whether admired for its aesthetic brilliance or valued for its cultural significance, this porcelain remains a beacon of elegance and sophistication. As we continue to explore the world beyond books, Spode Rome stands as a reminder that beauty, rooted in history and artistry, can endure for centuries.

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Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

April 29, 2025

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Northanger Abbey is one of Jane Austen’s earliest novels, although it was only published posthumously in 1818, along with Persuasion. Austen completed it as early as 1803 under the working title Susan. The rights to the novel were sold to the publisher Benjamin Crosby & Co. for £10; however, despite purchasing it, Crosby did not proceed with its publication, probably due to the author’s limited popularity at the time.

In 1816, many years after the sale, Jane Austen, through her brother Henry, regained the rights to the novel. She offered Crosby the chance to publish it, but he declined. Ultimately, Henry Austen ensured the work was published after Jane’s death. In 1818, Northanger Abbey was printed by the publisher John Murray, one of the leading publishers of the period.

The novel is a satire of the popular Gothic novels that dominated the literary market at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. The protagonist, Catherine Morland, a young and naive genre fan, allows her imagination, stirred by mysterious tales, to distort reality. Her fantasies lead to amusing misunderstandings, especially after she arrives at the titular Northanger Abbey.

Initially, the novel did not receive much acclaim. In the 19th century, both readers and critics preferred Austen’s other works, such as Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, which focused on social relations and the emotional development of the heroines. As a literary parody, Northanger Abbey was seen as less severe and less valuable.

However, within the context of Austen’s entire body of work, Northanger Abbey stands out as her most humorous novel. Today, it is appreciated for its light tone, witty humour, and clever literary references, though it has not reached the popularity of her significant works. For contemporary readers, it remains an intriguing example of literary play with conventions and a subtle satire on the literary trends of the time.

ABOUT THE EDITION

We printed the entire edition on Century Laid paper, with a limited run of 25 copies. The text was set in Bunel Roman No. 2, an electronic version of the typeface originally cut by John Isaac Drury for Elisabeth Caslon. This typeface was popular in Britain at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. The Abbey was bound in the style of the era.

Octavo (160 x 250 mm); 2 volumes, finely bound by hand in full leather. The top edge gilt. In a slipcase.

CONDITION
Brand new copy in a fine binding.

 

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Frankenstein: A Timeless Exploration of Creation and Consequence

April 25, 2025

Frankenstein: A Timeless Exploration of Creation and Consequence

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus, first published in 1818, is a cornerstone of Gothic literature and one of the most enduring horror novels in literary history. Its full title, evoking the myth of Prometheus, who defied the gods by stealing fire, signals its central themes: the perils of unchecked ambition, the boundaries of scientific discovery, and the moral consequences of playing god. 

The story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a sentient creature through unorthodox experiments, only to recoil from his creation, has transcended its origins to become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless adaptations in film, theatre, literature, and popular media. At its core, Frankenstein is a profound meditation on humanity, responsibility, and the ethical limits of innovation, themes that remain strikingly relevant in the modern era.

A Radical Mind in a Revolutionary Era

Mary Shelley, born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin in 1797, was a product of an intellectually vibrant and radical milieu. Her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was a pioneering feminist whose seminal work, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (1792), advocated for gender equality. Her father, William Godwin, was a philosopher and novelist whose ideas about social reform and human perfectibility profoundly shaped Mary’s worldview. Growing up surrounded by such thinkers, Mary was steeped in philosophy, politics, and science discussions from an early age. Her relationship with the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley further enriched her intellectual life, exposing her to the Romantic movement’s celebration of emotion, individualism, and the sublime beauty of nature. These influences converge in Frankenstein, a novel that grapples with the tension between human aspiration and the natural order.

Mary Shelley, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, Chawton Press 2022

The Birth of a Literary Masterpiece

The genesis of Frankenstein is one of the most famous anecdotes in literary history. In the summer of 1816, often dubbed the “Year Without a Summer” due to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815, Mary, Percy Shelley, Lord Byron, and John Polidori found themselves confined indoors at the Villa Diodati near Lake Geneva, Switzerland. The volcanic ash from Tambora’s eruption had caused global cooling, leading to unseasonably cold and stormy weather across Europe. To alleviate the boredom of their indoor confinement, Byron proposed a ghost story competition. While Polidori produced The Vampyre, a precursor to later vampire fiction, Mary’s contribution would prove far more enduring. At 18 years old, she conceived the idea of a scientist who creates life only to be horrified by the result. Her fascination with contemporary scientific debates—particularly galvanism, the use of electricity to stimulate muscle movement, which raised questions about the possibility of reanimating life—provided the novel’s intellectual foundation. Mary later described the vivid dream that inspired her: a vision of a “pale student of unhallowed arts” kneeling beside the creature he had brought to life.

Our edition of Frankenstein can be purchased on Etsy, eBay, AbeBooks, Biblio, or by clicking on one of the images.

A Modest Debut with Lasting Impact

Published anonymously in 1818 by Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones in London, the first edition of Frankenstein was a modest affair, consisting of just 500 copies spread across three volumes, a standard format for novels of the period. The book included a preface by Percy Shelley, who edited the manuscript and was dedicated to William Godwin, reflecting Mary’s deep connection to her father’s intellectual legacy. The novel’s initial reception was polarised. Some reviewers praised its originality and imaginative power, recognising its bold contribution to the Gothic genre. Others, however, were disturbed by its dark themes, particularly the depiction of a creator abandoning his creation and the moral transgressions implied by Victor’s experiments. The anonymity of the first edition led to speculation about its authorship, with some assuming Percy Shelley was the writer due to his involvement. It was not until the second edition in 1823 that Mary Shelley’s name appeared on the title page, and the 1831 edition, significantly revised, included a new introduction in which Mary detailed the novel’s creation and her creative process.

Mary Shelley, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, Chawton Press 2022

Romanticism and the Science of Life

Frankenstein is deeply rooted in the cultural and intellectual currents of its time. The Romantic movement, emphasising the sublime, the power of nature, and the exploration of human emotion, profoundly shaped the novel’s tone and themes. Victor Frankenstein’s obsessive pursuit of knowledge and eventual alienation from society echo the Romantic archetype of solitary genius. At the same time, the creature’s longing for acceptance and connection reflects the movement’s focus on empathy and the human condition. The novel also engages with the scientific debates of the early 19th century, when discoveries in chemistry, electricity, and anatomy pushed the boundaries of human understanding. Galvanism, in particular, captured the public’s imagination, with experiments demonstrating that electrical currents could cause muscles to twitch, sparking speculation about the reanimation of dead tissue. Mary Shelley wove these ideas into her narrative, creating a cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific hubris.

A Tale of Multiple Voices

The novel’s structure, a series of nested narratives, adds complexity and emotional depth. The story is framed by the letters of Robert Walton, an Arctic explorer who encounters Victor Frankenstein and records his tale. The creature tells his story within Victor's narrative, giving voice to his suffering and desperate desire for companionship. This layered structure allows Shelley to explore multiple perspectives, blurring the line between monster and human, creator and creation. The creature, often misunderstood as a mindless villain, is one of literature’s most tragic figures. Endowed with intelligence and sensitivity, he learns to speak and read, only to be rejected by society because of his grotesque appearance. His plight raises profound questions about what it means to be human and the responsibilities of a creator toward their creation.

Mary Shelley, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, Chawton Press 2022

A Cultural and Ethical Legacy

Since its publication, Frankenstein has had an unparalleled impact on popular culture. The creature's image—often misidentified as “Frankenstein” rather than his creator—has become a horror icon, from Boris Karloff’s portrayal in the 1931 film to modern reinterpretations in literature and media. Yet many adaptations simplify the novel’s philosophical depth, focusing on the horror elements rather than the ethical and emotional complexities. The story has also become a lens through which to examine contemporary issues, from bioethics and genetic engineering to artificial intelligence and the societal treatment of outsiders. The term “Frankenstein” has entered the lexicon as a shorthand for creations that spiral out of control, reflecting the novel’s enduring relevance.

Mary Shelley’s Enduring Contribution

Mary Shelley’s legacy as a literary pioneer rests largely on Frankenstein, though she wrote other novels, short stories, and essays. The novel’s exploration of ambition, responsibility, and the human condition transcends its Gothic roots, making it a timeless work that continues to resonate with readers. Its blend of horror, science, and philosophy challenges us to confront the consequences of our actions and the limits of our power. As we navigate an era of rapid technological advancement, Frankenstein is a potent reminder of the need for humility, empathy, and ethical reflection in pursuing knowledge.

A Timeless Edition for Bibliophiles

For bibliophiles and lovers of classic literature, Frankenstein remains a must-read, not only for its historical significance but also for its emotional and intellectual richness. At Chawton Press, we proudly offer a hand-bound, meticulously crafted edition of this masterpiece, designed to honour its legacy and endure for generations. Each copy reflects our passion for literature, with exquisite typography, high-quality printing, and elegant, hand-crafted binding. Rediscover Frankenstein in a format as timeless as its story.

Mary Shelley, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, Chawton Press 2022

DESCRIPTION

3 vols, octavo (215 x 138) mm.

This exclusive edition is published by Chawton Press in 2022 and is limited to 25 hand-numbered copies. Printed on luxurious Century Laid cotton paper and set in the elegant Brunel Text No. 2 typeface, the book is hand-bound in full leather using time-honoured techniques and presented in a custom slipcase. Gilded page edges add a refined finishing touch.

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