MILNE, A. A. Winnie-the-Pooh. London: Methuen & Co. Ltd., 1926. First edition, first impression of A. A. Milne’s classic children’s book, illustrated throughout by Ernest H. Shepard, including the iconic map of the “100 Aker Wood” as endpapers. Octavo. Finely bound in full goat morocco. Hand-tooled in 23 carat gold leaf. Five raised bands to spine, titles gilt to spine panels. Covers bordered with a double gilt fillet and delicate cornerpieces. Elaborate gilt decoration to board edges and turn-ins, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt. Hand-sewn silk headbands. The upper cover features a detailed gilt onlay of Christopher Robin and Winnie-the-Pooh, faithfully reproducing Ernest H. Shepard’s original illustration. The onlay has been meticulously hand-tooled and inset, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and sensitivity to the spirit of Shepard’s artwork. First published in 1926, Winnie-the-Pooh remains one of the defining works of twentieth-century children’s literature. Milne’s stories of the Hundred Acre Wood, brought to life by Shepard’s illustrations, have become central to the canon of illustrated children’s books and continue to be widely collected in first edition form. A superb copy of the first edition, presented in an elegant and luxurious fine binding that complements the enduring charm and significance of Milne’s text. Offered by Arch Books, specialists in significant first editions and finely bound works of enduring literary importance.