Stendhal (Henri Beyle).

2 volumes, 8vo (194 x 123mm.), half-titles, 2 wood-engraved title vignettes by Porret after Henry Mortimer, later half green morocco, gilt titles on leather spine labels, repairs throughout, inscriptions erased on title and first page of vol.1, loss of text vol.1, pp.128 and 185, binding slightly rubbed at edges, corners bumped

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 one of the most important texts in French literature. Stendhal drew his inspiration for Le Rouge et le noir from a contemporary newspaper account of the rise and fall of a young curate. Critics of the period agreed on the exceptional qualities of the novel, despite being shocked by Julien Sorel's Jacobinism and the novel's satirical portrait of the French aristocracy and the Catholic church.