Wilde, Oscar.

4to, first edition, no.69 of 1,000 copies, original red-brown cloth, designs in gilt by Charles Shannon on covers and spine, uncut, offsetting to endpapers, minor spotting, minor wear to boards

Mason 381

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 February 1899, some four years after the original production, Smithers published The Importance of Being Earnest with some changes that Wilde had made in the preceding months. The play, a "a trivial comedy for serious people", was the fourth of Wilde's society comedies, and turned out to be his last.