The world of Edward Gorey has lost a staunch and cherished friend. It is with much sadness that we say goodbye to Edward Bradford, a fellow collector, board member of The Edward Gorey House, and Mr. Gorey's official bibliographer who passed on December 26, 2020.
Over many decades, Edward Bradford amassed a staggering Gorey collection that included examples of almost everything produced by the prolific artist. Mr. Bradford was frequently seen attending auctions, book shops and fairs in New York City on his quest for rare (and ephemeral) Gorey items. Recently, the Library of Congress acquired this impressive collection and has plans to publish Mr. Bradford's long anticipated Edward Gorey bibliography in conjunction with Rutgers University. His small volume, F is for Fantods gives us a preview of the upcoming bibliography.
Edward Bradford was an invaluable resource to every Gorey collector and dealer he knew. Generous with his time and knowledge, Mr. Bradford excelled at helping others figure out Gorey conundrums.
Photo of Edward Bradford outside the 2010/11 Elegant Enigmas exhibition in Boston courtesy of Jonas Ploeger.
I am so glad to have been able to spend just a day in Edward Bradford's company, back in 2011. He visited us in Malmesbury, Wiltshire here in England. The day included visiting the partially ruined Abbey, where Edward was very pleased to be able to buy some fine Christmas ornaments! So much knowledge and kindness.
ReplyDeleteWe had a great photo taken of several of us Goreyphiles in front of my house, accompanied by the lifesize Doubtful Guest made by my wife, Lucy, but it doesn't look like I can post it here. It is on the Edward Gorey Fans Facebook page...
By any chance, does anyone know if Mr. Bradford resided in Woodhaven, NY?
ReplyDeleteyes, he did live in Woodhaven, NY. We miss him greatly -his niece :)
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