William Shakespeare (1564-1616). English playwright, poet and actor. Portrait, 1923 (engraving)

The titlepage, which bears the portrait of Shakespeare, engraved by Droeshout, is preceded by a leaf containing verses "To the Reader", signed, B. I. [i.e. Ben Jonson].Title page of the First Folio, 1623. this copy is one of only four in te world which feature the first state of the famous portrait by Martin Droeshout, printed before the engraved plate was recut to alter some of Shakespeare's features. Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies. Author: Shakespeare, William / Illustrator: Droeshout London: Printed by Isaac Iaggard and Ed. Blount, 1623. Language: English Source/Shelfmark: C.39.k.15, dedication and frontispiece .