Lot 210
  • 210

[Wilde, Oscar]

Estimate
18,000 - 25,000 USD
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Description

The Ballad of Reading Gaol.  By C. 3. 3.  London: Leonard Smithers, 1898



In 8s (8  3/4  x 5  1/2  in.; 223 x 140 mm, uncut).  A little light spotting on a few pages.  Publisher's half ivory cloth, spine gilt-lettered, mustard boards; spine somewhat darkened, abrasion at lower margin of upper cover, some soiling.  Half purple morocco gilt slipcase, chemise; some wear and fading.

Provenance

William K. Bixby (bookplate on front free endpaper) — Frank J. Hogan (morocco gilt bookplate on front pastedown, sold in his sale, Parke-Bernet, 25 April 1945, lot 781)

Literature

Mason 371

Condition

The Ballad of Reading Gaol. By C. 3. 3. London: Leonard Smithers, 1898 In 8s (8 3/4 x 5 1/2 in.; 223 x 140 mm, uncut). A little light spotting on a few pages. Publisher's half ivory cloth, spine gilt-leetered, mustard boards; spine somewhat darkened, abrasion at lower margin of upper cover, some soiling. Half purple morocco gilt slipcase, chemise; some wear and fading.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

First edition, one of 800 copies; this a presentation copy, inscribed and signed by Wilde on the verso of the half-title, "Maurice Eilbert. from his friend, the Author.  Paris, '98."

The Ballad of Reading Gaol was the first of only three works brought out by Wilde after his release from prison in 1897, the other two being first editions of The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband, both in 1899.