Published by Jonathan Cape, London; 2008. 356pp. 8vo. First edition, first impression. Condition: Fine/Fine
Bound in original black cloth boards with title in gilt to the spine. The binding is square and tight and in very smart condition, free from marking or damage, with just a touch of bumping to the spine ends and a crease down the spine. Inside, the pages are clean and bright and free from blemishes or wear.
This smart book is housed in its original dust jacket, which is in equally smart condition, free from damage or marks, save a hint of bumping to the spine ends corners.
The Enchantress of Florence was Rushdie's 9th novel, and "his most researched work" requiring "years and years of reading". The novel tells a series of interweaving stories by a variety of storytellers, travellers, and adventurers, touching on the histories and cultures of the various settings, from the Mughul and Ottoman Empires, to the earlier Mongols and Renaissance Florence. The Enchantress in the title was largely inspired by Orlando Furioso's Renaissance poem and there is a strong theme of sex and eroticism around her. There is also much discussion around humanism and debate as opposed to authoritarianism, and Machiavelli appears as a character in the book. As with Rushdie's other works, this one can be considered a work of magic realism.
In all, this is a very smart example of this first edition of Rushdie's 9th book, in excellent and collectible condition. It would sit beautifully in any collection of modern firsts.