Books

First edition, bound from the parts, of Dickens's last completed novel, in a very attractive contemporary binding. "Its stock has risen dramatically in recent years and it is now generally regarded as one of his very greatest works" (ODNB). The parts were issued from May 1864 to November 1865. Two vols, octavo (211 x 138 mm). Contemporary green morocco, spines lettered in gilt, compartments richly gilt and covers panelled in gilt with floral devices, marbled endpapers, gilt edges. With 40 wood engravings including frontispieces. Contemporary bookseller blind stamp to front free endpaper of L. H. Hicks of Leeds; Dickens centenary stamp mounted to illustration leaves; 20th-century bookplate to front pastedown of Robert J. Hayhurst, Lancashire druggist and chemist, who amassed a fine library. Some light foxing to contents. An excellent copy. Eckel pp. 94-5; Kremers pp. 112-117; Smith I, 15.

Charles Dickens's last completed novel, a work of satire and social commentary that paints a vivid portrait of the dualities of wealth and poverty in London.