The Picture of Dorian Gray.

one of 250 copies - signed by the author

Deluxe first edition of Wilde's only novel, this being number 225 of 250 copies signed by the author. The Picture of Dorian Gray is the story of a decadent young man who trades his soul for eternal youth and beauty. It was published first in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine in 1890 before being expanded and published in book form in 1891. The story was heavily edited at various stages in its publication history to remove queer content which offended British sensibilities (and the law). Even bowdlerized, the book was used against Wilde at his trials, eventually resulting in a prison sentence for 'gross indecency.' This large paper 'edition de luxe' was published in July 1891, three months after the first trade edition.

Deluxe first edition, number 225 of 250 large paper copies, signed by the author; 4to (21.8 x 18 cm); title page variant with period after 'Gray', unmarked internally; bound in handsome 1920s crushed morocco by Morrell, gilt-tooled covers imitating the original design, the front cover with 55 stylised 'butterflies' after the original by Charles Ricketts, top edge gilt, others untrimmed, original covers and spine bound in, spine a little faded, light rubbing to spine and corners, otherwise very good indeed.

Mason 329.