Offered here is a true first edition set of Master Humphrey’s Clock by Charles Dickens, published in London by Chapman and Hall in 1840. This is the original three-volume issue, illustrated by George Cattermole and Hablot Knight Browne (“Phiz”), featuring Dickens’ serialized works including The Old Curiosity Shop and Barnaby Rudge.
Each volume retains its original embossed cloth bindings with gilt-stamped decoration and the iconic clock design on the boards. Inside, the volumes are complete with all illustrations, showcasing the artistry that accompanied Dickens’ earliest publications.
Condition Overview:
Original bindings present; gilt decoration faded with notable spine and edge wear.
Losses to spine ends, fraying along joints, and rubbing to cloth (see detailed photos).
Boards show fading, surface wear, and age marks typical of early Victorian bindings.
Pages all firmly attached; age toning and light foxing throughout.
Previous owner inscriptions present.
Complete set, all volumes intact with engravings.
This is a rare survivor from 1840, making it an important addition for serious Dickens collectors and rare book libraries. Sets in unrestored, original bindings such as this are becoming increasingly scarce on the market.
Details:
Author: Charles Dickens
Title: Master Humphrey’s Clock
Publisher: Chapman and Hall, London
Date: 1840 (M DCCC XL)
Format: Complete 3-volume set
Illustrations by George Cattermole & Hablot Knight Browne (“Phiz”)
First Edition