MASTER HUMPHREY'S CLOCK.
London: Chapman & Hall, 1840 - 1841. 1st edition (Eckel, pp. 67- 70; Smith I, p. 47). 3 volumes (306; 306; 426 pp). Vol I with MHC (weekly numbers) publicaton prospectus tipped-in at front. Frontis in each volume & 195 intratextual woodcut illustrations [primarily] by Phiz and George Cattermole. Bound in 6s. 10-3/8" x 6-3/4". Original publisher's brown cloth with Smith's primary binding design, i.e., a gilt clock motif with the hands pointing to the time that corresponds to the volume number. Pale yellow eps. Spines sunned, though gilt bright. Slight cock to each volume. Vol I with unobtrusive professionally repaired cloth split along rear joint. Overall, Very Good. Item #2134.8
Contains first appearance of Dickens' popular 'Old Curiosity Shop' & his first historical work, 'Barnaby Rudge'.
The prospectus quite uncommon.
Price: $575.00