Edward Gordon Craig SCENE 1923 1st Ed Tom John Estate Inscribed Ephemera

Edward Gordon Craig — SCENE (1923), First Edition, Inscribed Association Copy with Tom John Estate Ephemera

London: Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, 1923. First edition, original gray-blue printed boards. With a foreword and introductory poem by John Masefield and illustrations reproducing Craig's pioneering modernist theatrical designs.

Provenance: Acquired directly from the estate auction of Tom John (1931-2026), the three-time Emmy Award-winning American television and theatrical production designer, celebrated for his work on Barbra Streisand's landmark television specials.

Contains a lengthy handwritten presentation inscription addressed to "Tom," dated October 1965, signed by an individual whose identity has not been established.

Accompanied by additional theatrical ephemera from Tom John's estate:

* Vintage black-and-white professional photograph of a theatrical production titled Entertainers, depicting a geometric stage setting with dancers. The reverse bears a J. Peter Happel Photography stamp, handwritten reference markings, and a reproduction-permission notice.

* Two vintage newspaper clippings concerning atmospheric theatrical stage design.

The accompanying materials provide an evocative record of Tom John's interests and professional world, complementing Craig's influential ideas about stage architecture, theatrical space, and modern scenery.

Condition: Good overall, with age-related rubbing, toning and wear to the original boards, including fraying and deterioration at the spine ends. Interior pages and illustrated plates appear generally well preserved. The accompanying photograph exhibits edge tears, surface wear and handling marks. Newspaper clippings show age-related discoloration and folding.

An unusual first-edition association copy with documented provenance from an important American production designer's estate, accompanied by related vintage theatrical material.