12 volumes, 8vo. Numerous illustrations by H.J. Ford, Lancelot Speed, and others. Original pictorial cloth in various colors stamped in gilt (some spines sunned, light wear at ends). Provenance: Uma Hardy (contemporary gift inscriptions in several volumes).

A COMPLETE FIRST EDITION SET OF THE FAIRY BOOKS, comprising: The Blue Fairy Book. 1889. -- The Red Fairy Book. 1890. -- The Green Fairy Books. 1892. -- The Yellow Fairy Book. 1894. -- The Pink Fairy Book. 1897. -- The Grey Fairy Book. 1900. -- The Violet Fairy Book. 1902. -- The Crimson Fairy Book. 1903. -- The Brown Fairy Book. 1904. -- The Orange Fairy Book. 1906. -- The Olive Fairy Book. 1907. -- The Lilac Fairy Book. 1910.

Between 1889 and 1918, Lang, a Scottish poet and novelist, compiled and edited twelve fairy books, although much of the translation work was done by his wife and other contributors. Each book is named after a color, and includes stories from various cultures and traditions, such as European, Asian, and African folklore. Lang's Fairy Books helped revive interest in the world of fairies and have played a significant role in preserving and popularizing many classic fairy tales for English-speaking audiences. Osborne Collection I, pp.34-36, and II, p.604.