Wilde, Oscar ("C.3.3."). The Ballad of Reading Gaol. E.J. Clode, New York, 1903.

Price: US$200.00 + shipping

Condition: Very Good

Description: New York: E.J. Clode, 1903. Perhaps Wilde's most well-known poem, originally published with his prisoner number ("C.3.3.") as a pseudonym (by the publication of this version his name had been revealed and used by other publishers). This is a Very Good copy of the First Edition, which was LIMITED to 259 copies. An uncommon to scarce edition. Bound in vellum, with titling in gilt on the spine and front cover. Clean text; printed in red and black with edges deckle. Not paginated; Quercus counts 57 and the limitation page. Period (1906) previous-owner signature on FFEP (with the notation "her wedding day.") Rubbed at the margins, with soiling or darkening definitely showing due to nature of the binding. The spine is darkened and has some tiny tears; while the gilt is bright, it is a bit of a chore to read without a squint or two. Limited. Hard Cover. Very Good/No Jacket. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall.

Seller: Quercus Rare Books, Chico, CA, U.S.A.