May 2023 James Dean Auction Ends Thursday, May 25th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/25/2023
First edition, first impression of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, one of the author's most popular novels and scarce in the original publisher's first impression binding. London: Chapman & Hall, 1843. With all of Todd's first impression points present, namely 14mm between blind-stamping and gilt on front board, and with "D" in Dickens unbroken. Other points include blue and red title page, chalky green endpapers, "Stave I" chapter heading, 1843 date and two pages of advertisements at conclusion. With the festive color frontispiece by John Leech present, along with Leech's three other etchings and four wood-cuts as called for. All edges gilt.
The most colorful and visually appealing of Dickens books, "A Christmas Carol" was an immediate success upon its publication just days before Christmas in 1843. It's perhaps the most enduring of his works, the perfect story of redemption at the most communal time of year. Measures 4.25" x 6.625" and spans 166pp. This copy is a very well-preserved example with still bright gilt on boards. Minor shelf wear and the faintest separation starting at front hinge, with slight leaning. Previous owner's pencil inscription to front free endpaper. Minor foxing throughout with some offsetting from etchings. Overall in very good plus condition, housed in custom crimson red slipcase. From the David Niven collection.
Scarce First Edition, First Impression of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens -- From the David Niven Collection
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