HONG KONG.- Eton College, the world renowned independent British school, and Heywood Hill, the legendary London bookshop, announced a free public exhibition of Shakespeare’s First Folio at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong from 26-29 October 2016.

Eton College and Heywood Hill, quintessentially British institutions, have joined forces, with the support of the British Consulate and Sotheby’s, to provide the residents of Hong Kong with a unique opportunity to see one of the greatest literary artefacts in the English-speaking world during 2016, the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.

Eton College, the famous British public school, has a spectacular library containing many rare books and manuscripts dating back to 9th Century. One of the treasures of their collection is a copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio. The First Folio is the book that in many ways gave us Shakespeare. Seven years after Shakespeare’s death two of his friends, Henry Condell and John Heminge, published this collected edition of his plays, half of which had never been printed before.

The small exhibition at Sotheby’s includes the First Folio alongside pictures, photographs and three Shakespeare Quartos highlighting a comedy, a tragedy and a history play.

Dr Andrew Gailey CVO, MA, PhD, Vice Provost of Eton College said: ‘We at Eton are thrilled to be bringing our copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio to Hong Kong. In many ways it is the iconic English treasure but, as this exhibition demonstrates, one that resonates around the world. The College has been collecting since its inception in 1440. We have moved on from the relics of dead saints and are now extremely fortunate in our collections of rare books, antiquities, portraits and ancient silver – all of which are used to enrich our teaching and inspire our boys in their appreciation of art and beauty. Hopefully this display will also bring much pleasure to our many friends in Hong Kong.’

Nicky Dunne, the Chairman of Heywood Hill said: ‘Shakespeare’s First Folio was published by a bookseller and so it is seems appropriate for Heywood Hill to help bring a copy of this extraordinary book to Hong Kong during this special anniversary year. At Heywood Hill we are also celebrating 80 years of bespoke bookselling. Since 1936 we have created libraries of all shapes and sizes for readers and collectors across the world. In those 80 years we have never sold a copy of the First Folio. It is a great honour for us to participate in this exhibition.’