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First edition, in the original wrappers, of Thomas Onwhyn's additional illustrations to accompany Dickens's Pickwick Papers. The plates were intended to be bound into copies of the novel; it is very uncommon to find sets in wrappers. Pickwick Papers was then being published in monthly parts and was proving a literary sensation. Onwhyn's additional illustrations were issued in these eight parts (initially projected as ten, then reduced), together comprising 32 plates. They are for the most part signed with the pseudonym Samuel Weller (then the most popular Pickwickian), but some bear Onwhyn's initials. The publishing of additional illustrations was a significant feature of Dickens's literary career. "Whether by the same or rival publishers, extra-illustrations became part of the marketing of his works... the early sets participated in the periodicity of Dickens's monthly publications in that they were also published in monthly parts to be completed with the completion of the text; they were advertised on the wrappers and in the Advertisers" (Calé, pp. 10-11). Dickens objected to piracies of his works but apparently deemed extra-illustrations only imitation (ODNB). They did not concern him even though he did not authorize them or receive payment. However, he disliked Onwhyn's work. The illustrations were reproduced in the American edition of Pickwick, and on seeing a copy, he commented on "the singular vileness of the illustrations" (Letters of Dickens, First edition, in the original wrappers, of Thomas Onwhyn's additional illustrations to accompany Dickens's Pickwick Papers. The plates were intended to be bound into copies of the novel; it is very uncommon to find sets in wrappers. Pickwick Papers was then being published in monthly parts and was proving a literary sensation. Onwhyn's additional illustrations were issued in these eight parts (initially projected as ten, then reduced), together comprising 32 plates. They are for the most part signed with the pseudonym Samuel Weller (then the most popular Pickwickian), but some bear Onwhyn's initials. The publishing of additional illustrations was a significant feature of Dickens's literary career. "Whether by the same or rival publishers, extra-illustrations became part of the marketing of his works... the early sets participated in the periodicity of Dickens's monthly publications in that they were also published in monthly parts to be completed with the completion of the text; they were advertised on the wrappers and in the Advertisers" (Calé, pp. 10-11). Dickens objected to piracies of his works but apparently deemed extra-illustrations only imitation (ODNB). They did not concern him even though he did not authorize them or receive payment. However, he disliked Onwhyn's work. The illustrations were reproduced in the American edition of Pickwick, and on seeing a copy, he commented on "the singular vileness of the illustrations" (Letters of Dickens, I, 1965, p. 414). READ MORE 8 parts, octavo. In original green wrappers printed in black. Housed in custom green cloth solander box. With 32 steel-engraved plates by Onwhyn. Recent bookplate of collector Peter Russell mounted to inside cover of box. Spines and wrapper extremities restored, lengthy repaired tear to front wrapper of part 6 into text without loss, still a very good set, the plates clean. Gimbel H1130. Luisa Calé, "Dickens Extra-Illustrated: Heads and Scenes in Monthly Parts", The Yearbook of English Studies, vol. 40, nos. 1/2, 2010.

"The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club," commonly known as "The Pickwick Papers," is Charles Dickens' debut novel, initially published in monthly installments from 1836 to 1837. The novel revolves around the escapades of the Pickwick Club, led by the kindly and naive Samuel Pickwick. The story begins with Mr. Pickwick, a wealthy and good-natured gentleman, forming a club dedicated to exploring and researching the quaint and curious phenomena of the English countryside. Accompanied by his faithful servant, Sam Weller, and his fellow club members - the sportsman Nathaniel Winkle, the poet Augustus Snodgrass, and the well-to-do Tracy Tupman - Pickwick embarks on a series of misadventures. Throughout their travels, the members encounter a myriad of colorful characters and find themselves in humorous and often absurd situations. Dickens uses the episodic structure of the novel to present a tapestry of vignettes, each showcasing different facets of English society, from the eccentric to the mundane. Among the memorable episodes is the mishap-filled romantic pursuit of Mr. Tupman, the amateur theatricals featuring Mr. Winkle's dubious acting skills, and Mr. Pickwick's inadvertent entanglements in legal disputes, including a memorable trial in which he is wrongfully accused of breach of promise. One of the standout characters is Sam Weller, Mr. Pickwick's witty and resourceful valet, whose distinctive Cockney speech and clever observations provide comic relief and endear him to readers. "The Pickwick Papers" is more than just a collection of humorous escapades; it also serves as a social commentary on various aspects of early 19th-century England. Dickens addresses issues such as the legal system, the injustices of debtors' prisons, the hypocrisies of the upper class, and the hardships faced by the working class. The novel's popularity lies in Dickens' sharp wit, vivid characterizations, and satirical observations of society, establishing his reputation as a master storyteller and cementing his place in the pantheon of English literature. "The Pickwick Papers" remains a beloved classic, appreciated for its humor, warmth, and insight into the human condition and the society of its time.