- 71
Shelley, Mary.
Estimate
50,000 - 55,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Frankenstein; or The Modern Prometheus. Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones, 1818
12mo (191 x 112mm.), 3 volumes, first edition, half-titles, volume 1 with advertisement leaf K2, later full brown morocco by Bayntun, spines gilt in compartments, marbled endpapers, top edges gilt, some minor browning, wormhole to volume 2 (not affecting text)
A fine copy of the first edition of the best known fiction of the Romantic era and first work of science fiction in English literature.
In the introduction to the 1831 edition of her masterpiece of gothic horror, Mary Shelley recounts the story, now a famous moment in literary history, of the stormy night in June 1816 at the VIlla Diodati by Lake Geneva where she (still only eighteen years old), Percy Shelley, Claire Clairmont and Lord Byron initiated a ghost-writing contest which led to the composition of Frankenstein. "From a 'waking dream' she created an instant myth that captured the public imagination. The story of the scientist and his creature rapidly permeated all levels of society, and became the material of theatrical productions, newspapers, political cartoons, parliamentary debate, translations, and countless inexpensive and/or pirated reprints..." (Betty T. Bennett, Oxford DNB). Since then the story of Frankenstein has, of course, continued to hold a central place as narrative and metaphor in the popular imagination, the most famous incarnation being, perhaps, the classic 1931 film adaptation starring Boris Karloff.
A fine copy of the first edition of the best known fiction of the Romantic era and first work of science fiction in English literature.
In the introduction to the 1831 edition of her masterpiece of gothic horror, Mary Shelley recounts the story, now a famous moment in literary history, of the stormy night in June 1816 at the VIlla Diodati by Lake Geneva where she (still only eighteen years old), Percy Shelley, Claire Clairmont and Lord Byron initiated a ghost-writing contest which led to the composition of Frankenstein. "From a 'waking dream' she created an instant myth that captured the public imagination. The story of the scientist and his creature rapidly permeated all levels of society, and became the material of theatrical productions, newspapers, political cartoons, parliamentary debate, translations, and countless inexpensive and/or pirated reprints..." (Betty T. Bennett, Oxford DNB). Since then the story of Frankenstein has, of course, continued to hold a central place as narrative and metaphor in the popular imagination, the most famous incarnation being, perhaps, the classic 1931 film adaptation starring Boris Karloff.
Provenance
Bent Jule-Jensen (bookplates)
Literature
Ashley Library 5:29; Wolff 6280; T.J. Wise p.8; Tinker 1881
Condition
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."
"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."