Dickens, Charles

8vo, first English book edition, later issue, etched frontispiece, vignette title-page and 41 other plates by Robert Seymour, R.W. Browne and H.K.  Browne ('Phiz') all in later states, publisher's slate blue fine-diaper cloth, covers stamped in blind with filigree ornament at corners and strapwork design at centre, "The Pickwick Papers" in gilt on spine, collector's black silk slipcase, contemporary inscription on front free endpaper, some spotting and dampstaining, occasional small marginal tears, hinges neatly repaired, binding slightly scuffed and faded

Eckel, pp.17-58; Hatton & Cleaver, pp.3-88; Smith I:3; Grolier, English Hundred, 78

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."

An unrecorded primary binding. The slate blue cloth of this copy conforms to Smith's description of one of two cloths used in the primary binding; the elaborate blind-stamping is exceptional, however, and not found elsewhere either in copies of the Pickwick Papers or other of Dickens' octavo novels.