Catalogue of the Library and Literary Manuscripts of the Late Sir Max Beerbohm, Sotheby & Co.

Catalogue of the Library and Literary Manuscripts of the Late Sir Max Beerbohm, Sotheby & Co.

£23.00
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Catalogue of the Library and Literary Manuscripts of the Late Sir Max Beerbohm, Sotheby & Co.

Catalogue of the Library and Literary Manuscripts of the Late Sir Max Beerbohm, Sotheby & Co.

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Catalogue of the Library and Literary Manuscripts of the Late Sir Max Beerbohm, Sotheby & Co. — First Edition

Publication: London, Sotheby & Co., 1960

Formatting: 8vo, pp. 103, [1].

Condition Report: Very Good. The original printed wrappers remain fundamentally sound and firmly attached, showing only slight dust-soiling, mild corner creasing, and minor thumbing to the extremities typical with handling. The spine is uncreased and the binding remains perfectly tight, reflecting a catalogue that has been carefully shelved rather than heavily consulted. Internally, the leaves are crisp, bright, and completely free of foxing, stains, or any extraneous marginalia, presenting a handsome, highly authentic example of this ephemeral record.

Catalogue Note: This is the uncommon 'Unillustrated Catalogue 3d.' issue of the definitive Sotheby & Co. auction catalogue for the library of Sir Max Beerbohm, dispersed following his passing in Rapallo. The sale, conducted by order of the administratrix of the estate of the late Sir Max and Lady Beerbohm across Monday, 12 December, and Tuesday, 13 December 1960, remains a vital bibliographic milestone for collectors of fin-de-siècle and Edwardian literature. Notably, the catalogue documents Beerbohm’s famous 'improved' books, volumes he mischievously altered with drawings, parodies, and mock inscriptions.

Retaining its original plain paper wrappers adorned with a facsimile self-caricature by Beerbohm, this reference stands as a scarce and essential primary resource on the open market, particularly in such well-preserved, unmarked condition.

A fascinating primary resource for collectors of Edwardian literature, this original 1960 Sotheby & Co. auction catalogue provides a comprehensive inventory of the library and manuscripts of the legendary essayist and caricaturist, Sir Max Beerbohm. Detailing 383 distinct lots, the catalogue offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of a towering literary figure, meticulously recording the playfully 'improved' books, parodies, and original artworks that populated his final collection.

Book Condition: Very Good

Book Authors: Sotheby & Co.

Book Publisher: Sotheby & Co.

Book Language: English

Narrative Type: Antiquarian

Genre: Catalogues

Book edition: First Edition

Signed: No

Book Pages: 104

Book Publication Year: 1960

Book Publication Date:

Book Binding: Softcover

Illustrator: Max Beerbohm

Book Series: N/A

Country/region of manufacture: London, United Kingdom

Book Dimensions:

Book Condition Guide

We stock thousands of books in a wide range of conditions. To make things clear and to help you know exactly what to expect, Please refer to these condition categories to understand the condition of the book you will receive.
Condition Description
New A brand-new, unread and professionally handled book. Carefully preserved from publication to purchase, these books are offered in the best attainable condition. This grade applies to recently published titles that have not entered long-term storage.
As New The book is in pristine, original condition as if just published. No signs of use or handling. The dust jacket (if present) is equally flawless. This grade applies to any book that has remained untouched in storage for years.
Fine The book is close to As New. It remains bright and attractive, but could show minor imperfections to the boards and/or dust jacket (if present). Its pages are typically clean and unmarked.
Near Fine The book has a number of small flaws, i.e. slight rubbing to the edges, or tiny chips or creases to the dust jacket (if present). Its pages may have faint marks, or creases that are barely perceptible — nothing that detracts from their overall condition.
Very Good The book maintains its structural integrity, and has no major flaws such as tears to its binding or pages. It may, however, show signs of careful use, handling, or storage — small marks and creases, light foxing. Its dust jacket (if present) remains fully intact, but small tears may be present.
Good A book that remains intact and readable with complete text pages, but shows moderate signs of wear and use to both the book and dust jacket (if present). It may have noticeable creases, nicks, or stains, and the spine likely shows fading, bumping, and rubbing. There could be writing, underlining, and other marks on some pages, though the majority will be clean and tidy.
Fair A book with significant wear or damage. The text pages will be complete, but there may be heavy underlining, highlighting and staining throughout, and the book’s endpapers, half-title, and copyright pages could be damaged or missing. The binding could be loose, and the dust jacket (if present) may have notable scuffs or tears. These copies are usually of interest for content, signature(s) or scarcity.
Poor A heavily worn book whose value lies in its complete and legible text. A poor book will have substantial defects — loose joints or hinges, detached covers, loose and/or missing pages, and could be heavily soiled. A poor book is also known as a reading copy, and although compromised, can hold historical or bibliographic significance.

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