3 volumes, 8vo, FIRST EDITION, half-titles, 12 leaves of publisher's catalogue dated April 1881 at end of volume 3, original dark blue cloth lettered in gilt on spine with rules in black, ruled borders in black on upper and lower covers, brown coated endpapers, preserved in matching quarter blue morocco folding box, joints repaired (lower joint of volume 2 starting, lower joint of volume 1 cracked), neat  repairs to spines and some corners, bindings very slightly skewed, minor foxing to early and late leaves (3)

"E.C. Simpson", ownership signatures on title pages

Edel and Laurence A16(a); Connolly The Modern Movement 1

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

FIRST BOOK EDITION OF THE AUTHOR'S EARLY MASTERPIECE.

Edel and Laurence note that some cop🎀ies include the catalogue dated April 1881, as herꦆe. This was "probably inserted through error or through shortage at the bindery". The more common catalogue is dated December 1881.