Nesbit, Wilbur D. (1871–1927)

Sermons in Song: Poems of Homely Philosophy [1929 Volland 'Sunny Book' Style / Original Presentation Box]

Chicago, P. F. Volland Company, 1929. First Edition, Thus. Decorative Boards in Original Box.

A superlative example of the P. F. Volland Company’s 'gift-book' aesthetic, featuring Wilbur D. Nesbit’s 'Homely Philosophy' in a meticulously preserved decorative format. This copy appears virtually unread, housed in its original illustrated box which has remarkably survived without the usual structural failures or corner breaks.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Features decorated endpapers with a repeating motif; each page of text is framed with a consistent decorative header and a variety of changing 'footers' (marginal illustrations) throughout. 
+++ Binding: Quarter blue cloth over vibrant decorated paper boards; titles stamped in gold. 
+++ Content: A collection of sentimental and 'homely' verse by Nesbit, a popular Chicago poet and humorist, published posthumously in this elegant format. 
+++ Boxed Set: Original publisher’s presentation box featuring a large color-illustrated label on the top lid and titles on the bottom flap. 
+++ Imprint: P. F. Volland, renowned for their high-quality lithography and 'Books with a Greeting' philosophy. 
+++ Specs: 7.25 inches tall by 5.25 inches wide / 9-96 pages.

CONDITION: Fine in a Near Fine Box -- The book is in pristine condition with sharp corners and a crisp, clean interior. The presentation box is exceptionally well-preserved, free of breaks or tears, showing only the most minimal handling wear to the edges. A collector-grade survival.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE -- 
Wilbur D. Nesbit was a pillar of the Chicago literary scene and a close associate of James Whitcomb Riley. His 'Sermons in Song' reflects the early 20th-century American appetite for 'Homely Philosophy'—verse that celebrated simple virtues, small-town life, and optimistic resilience.

The P. F. Volland Company revolutionized the gift-book market by treating the book as a complete aesthetic package. By integrating consistent page decorations, high-quality papers, and matching presentation boxes, they bridged the gap between a greeting card and a library volume. This 1929 edition represents the peak of their production quality before the economic constraints of the Great Depression forced simpler designs.

SUBJECTS: P. F. Volland Company, Chicago Publishing, American Poetry, Gift Books, Art Deco Illustration, Wilbur D. Nesbit, Homely Philosophy. Ephemera, Decorative Arts, Poetry, Gift Books.

Item #21554

Price: $65.00