Smith, Adam.

4to (278 x 212mm.), 2 volumes, first edition, half-title in volume 2,  publisher's advertisement at the end of volume 2, leaves M3, Q1, U3, 2Z3, 3A4 and 3O4 in volume 1 are cancels, also leaves D1 and 3Z4 in volume 2 (all as usual), contemporary calf, spines in six compartments gilt, red and green morocco labels on spine, red edges, preserved in folding cloth cases and matching quarter calf slipcase, joints of volume 1 repaired, joints of volume 2 cracked, hinges of volume 2 starting, very light foxing in both volumes at beginning and end



First edition of the "first and greatest classic of modern economic thought" (Printing and the Mind of Man).



"Every individual...generally, indeed, neither intends to promote the public interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it. By preferring the support of domestic to that of foreign industry he intends only his own security; and by directing that industry in such a manner as its produce may be of the greatest value, he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention" [Book IV Chapter II ]

Thomas Papillon, Esq (? of the Papillon family of Huguenot ancestry, of Acrise Place, Kent and Crowhurst Park, Sussex), armorial bookplates

 

PMM 221; Rothschild 1897; Kress 7621; Goldsmith's 11392; Sabin 82303

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"The Wealth of Nations had no rival in scope or depth when published and is still one of the few works in its field to have achieved classic status, meaning simply that it has sustained yet survived repeated reading, critical and adulatory, long after the circumstances which prompted it have become the object of historical enquiry...". (Donald Winch, Oxford DNB)