[Brontë, Anne.]

12mo (193 x 120mm.), 3 volumes, first edition, half-title in volume 1, without the publisher's advertisement at the end of volume 1, nineteenth-century half polished calf by E. Riley and son, marbled boards and endpapers, spines in six compartments gilt with maroon and green morocco labels lettered in gilt, top edges gilt, later endpapers, some very minor browning and spotting to leaves and binding, minimal wear to edges of binding

Smith 4; Parrish 91

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."

A near fine copy of the author's powerful second novel, and her only separately published work. Although criticised at the time for its "morbid love for the coarse" the book sold well, and is now seen as an innovative and radical expression of feminist values, "challenging the then current ideal of woman as an 'angel' in the house, submissive to her lot as her husband's chattel" (Margaret Smith, Oxford DNB).