Wilde, Oscar

4to (220 x 175mm.), NUMBER 62 OF 100 LARGE PAPER COPIES ON VAN GELDER HAND-MADE PAPER, SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR, half title, original purple linen with lettering and motifs in gilt, collector's maroon morocco backed folding box, mostly unopened, bumped at head and foot of spine, some very occasional spoiling to preliminaries

Mason 386

Condition is as described in the main body of the cataloguing, where 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."

Like The Importance of Being Earnest, Wilde's third play opened in early 1895, but was not published until four years later, once Wilde had been released from prison. The success of The Ballad of Reading Gaol persuaded him to finally publish his last two plays, which also brought him a little - much needed - money. The work appeared in this large paper edition, and also in a run of 1,000 ordinary paper copies and 12 copies on Japanese vellum. Wilde's list of recipients of large paper copies (manuscript now held in the William Andrews Clark Memorial Library, University of California) runs: "Robbie, Reggie, Bosie, More, Shannon".