
1875 Rare Book Set -The Personal History of David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
Author: Charles Dickens. Illustrated by H. K. Browne.
Title: The Personal History of David Copperfield.
Publisher: London, Chapman and Hall, no date (1875). Complete set of 2 volumes.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8 x 5.5 inches.
Pages: Two volumes, xi-446, x-460 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good, near fine, original red publisher’s cloth binding, elaborately embossed with decorative floral and geometric patterns, with gilt titles and designs to the spine (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing or staining - as shown, previous owner's inscription, dated "Xmas 1879," appears on the title pages - as shown).
Illustrations: Illustrated throughout by H. K. Browne ("Phiz"), featuring forty full-page plates, including a frontispiece and illustrated title pages. (Complete). The illustrations are crisp and well-printed, enhancing the narrative with Phiz's characteristic liveliness.
Estimate: (USD 250 - 350).
The book: This is a beautiful two-volume edition of David Copperfield, one of Charles Dickens’ most beloved novels. First published in 1850, David Copperfield is a semi-autobiographical work that follows the protagonist's journey from childhood to maturity, encountering hardship, love, and eventual success. This Chapman and Hall edition from 1875 retains the original illustrations by Phiz and is housed in a striking red cloth binding, making it a desirable collectible for Dickens enthusiasts.
The author: Charles Dickens (1812–1870) was one of the greatest English novelists of the Victorian era. Known for his keen social commentary, memorable characters, and masterful storytelling, his works, including Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, and A Tale of Two Cities, continue to be widely read and studied. David Copperfield was particularly dear to him, as it drew heavily from his own experiences.
The illustrator: Hablot Knight Browne (1815–1882), known by his pen name "Phiz," was the primary illustrator for Dickens’ novels for over two decades. His detailed and expressive artwork brought Dickens’ characters to life and remains an integral part of the books’ enduring charm.