Freud, Sigmund

8vo (235 x 155mm.), first edition, one of 600 copies, uncut in the original grey printed wrappers, in blue cloth folding box, wrappers slightly smudged and worn at edges, upper joint skilfully repaired at foot

Garrison-Morton 4980; Grinstein 227; Norman F33; PMM 389

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, rare in the original wrappers, of The Interpretation of Dreams, Freud's greatest single work and the foundation of psychoanalysis. Freud's first major work on psychology, Die Traumdeutung contains "all the basic components of psychoanalytic theory and practice" (PMM): displacement, regression, the libido, Oedipal impulses and the erotic nature of dreams. "Freud gave an unprecedented precision and force to the idea of the essential similarities of normal and abnormal behaviour, opening up the door to the irrational that had been closed to Western pychology since the time of Locke" (Norman). The book was published on 4 November 1899 (though post-dated by the publisher) but sold so slowly that the second edition did not appear until nine years later.