Books

London: Bernard Smithers and Co, 1899. FIRST EDITION. ONE OF 1,000 COPIES. 228 x 157 mm. (8 1/2 x 6 1/4"). 8 p.l., 151, [1] pp. Original lavender cloth decorated with gilt designs by Charles Ricketts, edges untrimmed and UNOPENED. In a modern black morocco clamshell box by R. Patron with gilt decoration replicating that on the original cover, gilt titling to back. Mason 381. ◆Spine lightly sunned (but far less faded than usual with this binding), but AN UNSURPASSABLY FINE COPY, with no signs of use or wear. This is Wilde's best-known work and a justly celebrated play that sparkles from beginning to end with pre-eminent sophisticated wit. Day says that "the play's lasting appeal arises from some of the most brilliant dialogue of the English stage," and it is generally accepted as one of the two or three best modern comedies ever written. Wilde, who gave the play the subtitle, "A Trivial Comedy for Serious People," said that "the first act is ingenious, the second beautiful,…

A Trivial Comedy for Serious People

First edition printings of The Importance of Being Earnest are identified by the publisher 'Leonard Smithers and Co.' on the title page, and tasteful periodic typographical ornaments sprinkled throughout.