De Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien – Dutch Prisma Edition, Prisma-Boeken 529, 10th Printing (1973)

Well-preserved 1973 tenth impression of the classic Dutch Prisma pocket edition of De Hobbit, with the iconic pink Cees Kelfkens cover and both maps present.

Published by Prisma-Boeken (Het Spectrum B.V.), Utrecht/Antwerpen, 1973.
Dutch translation by Max Schuchart, featuring the distinctive modernist cover design by Cees Kelfkens. The copyright page confirms: “Eerste druk 1960 – Tiende druk 1973.”

The bright pink front cover remains visually striking, showing Bilbo and the dwarves in Kelfkens’ recognizable graphic style. The spine retains its blue panel with title and author in black, Prisma logo at the head and series number 529 at the foot. The rear cover carries the Dutch blurb and series references as expected.

Bibliographical details:
– Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
– Title: De Hobbit
– Translator: Max Schuchart
– Cover artist: Cees Kelfkens
– Publisher: Prisma-Boeken (Het Spectrum B.V.), Utrecht/Antwerpen
– Year: 1973 (10th printing of the Prisma edition)
– Series: Prisma-Boeken, no. 529
– Format: Paperback, pocket size (ca. 18 x 11 cm)
– Pagination: 226 pages
– Maps: Thror’s Map and the Map of Wilderland, both present

Condition report:
A clean and well-kept example of this fragile and collectible paperback.

The front cover remains bright and attractive, with only light general handling wear. A small crease is visible near the lower edge, along with minor edge rubbing and light stress to the laminate. Corners show slight wear but no loss of design. The spine is complete and unbroken, with light rubbing and a few reading creases, and mild wear at the head and tail. The back cover is clean and fully legible, showing light age toning and minimal surface wear.

Internally the book is sound and well preserved. The text block is tight and square, with no significant lean. Paper has evenly toned, as typical for Prisma editions, but remains supple and pleasant to handle. There is some light foxing and spotting visible to the inside covers and the first and last leaves, while the text pages themselves are largely clean and unaffected.

Both maps – Thror’s Map and the Map of Wilderland – are present, crisp, and free from tears or markings. No ownership inscriptions, annotations, or other markings are present.

Summary:
A very presentable 10th printing (1973) of the Dutch Prisma-Boeken edition of De Hobbit, with a bright cover, complete maps, and a clean, solid interior.

A desirable and affordable example of this iconic Dutch Tolkien paperback, increasingly appreciated by collectors for its distinctive design.

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