Exceptionally scarce proof copy of De Reisgenoten ("The Fellowship of the Ring"), the first part of the very first translation of The Lord of the Rings. This proof copy was issued in early autumn 1956 as a sewn paperback with a dust jacket. The official publication, which followed in October 1956, was released as a hardcover with a dust jacket. Notably, on the dust jacket of De Reisgenoten, Tolkien's name is mistakenly printed as "J.J.R. Tolkien" instead of "J.R.R. Tolkien". This error is also present on the dust jacket of this proof copy.
At the time of publication, it was common practice in the Netherlands to print approximately 20 to 25 copies for distribution to newspapers. This makes it one of the rarest Tolkien publications of The Fellowship of the Ring ever released, with only two of these proof copies known to have been preserved. The sublime condition of the copy being offered here makes it unparalleled.
The first Dutch edition, first printings were published by Uitgeverij Het Spectrum (Utrecht/Antwerp) just one year after the original English edition, with a limited run of only 3,000 copies per part. The translation by Max Schuchart was awarded the title of Best Translation of the Year. Unlike the UK edition, the Dutch edition includes two maps instead of three: a removable map in the first part and a fold-out map in the final part.
This proof copy is in a superb, nearly pristine condition, looking as if it just came out of the bookstore. The completely blank paperback cover is fresh and unmarked, free from stains. The binding is outstanding. The pages are exceptionally bright, without the usual toning. The book is undoubtedly unread, with no writing, stamps, dog-ears, or folds. The removable map at the back is also in mint condition. The text block is immaculate. The dust jacket is likewise in exceptional condition, showing only very light wear at the corners. It is almost unbelievable that this book is nearly 70 years old.
