Books

London (1840-41, i. e. 4 Apr. 1840 - 2 Nov. 1841): Chapman & Hall. First Edition. Original Wraps. Quarto. First issue, large octavo in sixes; the 88 weekly parts; [i-viii],[1]2-306; [i-v]vi, [1]2-306; [i-v]vi, [1]2-426. Original printed wrappers by Cattermole, 2 frontispieces, 130 woodcuts and 25 initials by Browne; 1 frontispiece and 38 woodcuts by Cattermole; 1 woodcut each by S. Williams and Maclise. A very handsome set, now scarce on the market. All wrappers are correct; a very good set, internally clean and bright; Light soiling to front wrap of part 1 and the rear wrap of part 88. Housed in a handsome maroon quarter leather slipcase, with chemise. Overall, an outstanding set, in collectible condition, and with a pedigree - it is from the famed Hatton & Cleaver collection. Provenance: The Hatton & Cleaver Collection, The Heritage Bookshop, Charles Parkhurst Books, Inc.

The Old Curiosity Shop is one of two novels (the other being Barnaby Rudge) which Charles Dickens published along with short stories in his weekly serial Master Humphrey's Clock, from 1840 to 1841. It tells the story of Nell Trent, a beautiful and virtuous young girl of 'not quite fourteen,' who lives with her grandfather in his shop of curiosities.