Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman Faithfully Presented
London: James R. Osgood, McIlvaine and Co., 1891.
First edition, first impression of the classic novel that scandalized fin de siecle England with a tragic, unforgettable heroine. (Dated 1891 on copyright page; all Purdy's points present: Vol. 1, p. [v], line 12, "have it said"; "as sumple" on one line p. 45;Vol. 2, p. 58, line 4, "Valasquez"; p. 155, line 21, "seampstress"; p. 199, "Chapter XXV" for XXXV; "it's" on p. 234; Vol. 3, correct line endings on p.14; p. 112, line 24, "are ye doing." [viii], 264; [viii], 278; [vi], 277, [1] pp. Bound in publisher's tan cloth with gilt honeysuckle design to front board and lettering to spine. Near Fine, spines slightly cocked, corners bumped, a little rippling to cloth, darkened spines, foxing to endpapers and top edges. Small abrasion to title page of Vol. 2 Bindings sturdy and cloth much less grubby or rubbed than is common. The gilt spine lettering is quite legible, whereas it is often rubbed away. An unsophisticated triple decker, quite uncommon and desirable thus. Purdy pp.67-76; Webb pp. 24-27. Item #140949510
Price: $15,000