Keats, John

8vo, first edition, half-title (later state with “T. Miller, Printer, Noble street, Cheapside”) dedication leaf, errata leaf (later state with 5 lines), sectional titles, 4pp. publisher’s advertisements at end, dated 1 May 1818, original boards, paper label on spine, edges uncut, chemise (worn) and burgundy morocco pull-off case, binding with repair and restoration, especially to foot of spine

Mary Tennyson (sister to Alfred), ownership signature on title; Mildred Bliss, Dumbarton Oakes, book label

Hayward 232, Tinker 232; Ashley 3:13

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."

Keats's immortal epic poem, famously savaged by Lockhart for being "imperturbable drivelling idiocy". The poem, written when Keats was twenty-one, is dedicated to the memory of the poet/forger Thomas Chatterton, who, like Keats himself, represented the tragic figure of unrecognised genius.