Description

Three volume set of this early Dickens title, dated 1852, 1853, 1854 respectively. All first editions/first issues in original reddish brown cloth. Marbled endpapers and all edges marbled. Backstrips stamped in gold lettering inside elaborate shield shaped ornamental design. Boards stamped in blind front and rear, and gilt motif of Alfred reading to his mother in center on each cover. Each volume illustrated with frontispiece by W. Topham. Minor sunning to backstrips and volume III has two minute punctures to cloth at upper and lower backstrip. Minor wear to corners as usual and incidental age soiling to cloth. Former owner’s bookplate in each volume reads: “J. Steele Coldstream Guards”. Overall a superior set in the original cloth, which is becoming much more difficult to find. Scans are available on request. Eckel p.127-9; Smith II p.75.