MELVILLE, HERMAN | The Confidence-Man: His Masquerade. New York: Dix, Edwards, 1857

The Property of a Gentleman

MELVILLE, HERMAN

The Confidence-Man: His Masquerade. New York: Dix, Edwards, 1857

12mo (7 3/4 x 5 in.; 197 x 127 mm). Publisher's slate-blue cloth, spine lettered in gilt, covers blindstamped with borders and central arabesques, yellow endpapers; some spotting and wear. Half black slipcase, spine lettered and decorated in gilt.

First edition of the last of Melville's books to be published during his lifetime. The book appeared 1 April 1857, but was not deposited for copyright until 2 May. This copy is inscribed by an early owner on 4 April. Dix, Edwards went out of business a few weeks later.

REFERENCE:

BAL 13670

PROVENANCE:

C. Le Roy Webster (signature dated 4 April on title-page; ticket of bookseller H. B. Price, 4th Ave. & 17th St., New York, on lower pastedown) — Frank J. Hogan (bookplate; his sale Parke-Bernet, 24 January 1945, lot 456)