Kafka, Franz.

8vo (228 x 154mm.), copy number 173 of a limited edition of 800, contemporary black buckram, paper label on spine, without original wrappers, lacking a preliminary leaf, library stamps on title-page and first page of text, label worn

Condition is 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."

first edition of kafka's first book, a collection of 18 short stories, some of which had appeared in the journal Hyperion in 1908. Out of the 800 copies printed, only about 300 were sold before Rowohlt's publishing company was taken over by Kurt Wolff, who reissued the remaining sheets with a new title-page and imprint.