DON JUAN: Cantos VI - VII - VIII; [the scarcer, smaller and more fragile "common" issue].
London: John Hunt, 1823. First edition, published anonymously. The first edition was available in three sizes: the more expensive "Large Paper" issue (1,500 copies, approximately 8.75" tall, 182 pages); the less expensive "Small Paper" issue (3,000 copies, 7" tall, 182 pages); and the much cheaper "Common" issue (16,000 copies, approximately 5.5" tall, 97 pages). Although the "Common" issues far outnumbered the other two, they are reportedly far scarcer. Randolph surmises this is due to their fragile bindings: "quick sewn and thrown into a very friable wrapper -- they usually have literally disintegrated. "[Randolph, p. 84]. This particular copy's survival is perhaps owing to it having been rebound early on. 24mo full red leather; covers ruled and embellished in gilt; three raised spine bands with lettering and ornamentations in gilt and blind; gray endpapers; all edges gilt; 97 pages; lacking the single page of ads at rear. Very good with light damp staining to lower covers extending very slightly to first and last several blanks, touch of rubbing along front outer hinge, small chip to lower corner title page, and pages mildly aged.
[Randolph, pp. 82-4, Wise vol. II, pp. 5].
Item #72745
Price: $425.00