Extraordinary book up for auction soon at Christies. An excellent edition of one of 12 copies can be auctioned soon.Let’s be serious about this orProdigal brother is an opportunity for an interesting investment for all collectors. The Oscar Wilde book auction is coming soon.
An unusual copy of an unusual book
The Importance of Being Earnest, i.e.Let’s be serious about this, is one of Oscar Wilde’s most outstanding works. Therefore, full of his characteristic wit, irony and cutting commentary on the society of the time. The book was published in 1899 by publisher Leonard Smithers. It is the culmination of the aesthetic and decadent style that dominated the literature of the late 19th century. Wilde, called by W.H. Auden “a pure master of verbal opera,” plays with social conventions in this comedy. At the same time, he criticizes the hypocrisy of his time.
The Importance of Being Earnest in this special edition has a quarto format (224 x 177 mm) and is bound in luxurious velin designed by Charles H. Shannon. In addition, it is decorated with gilded feather motifs. The book was published on high-quality Japanese paper. The copy itself is numbered 1 and bears the clear signature of Oscar Wilde, ending with a large swirl.
The premiere performance in London took place on February 14, 1895. The play was met with great acclaim. However, after Wilde’s arrest due to scandal, the play was taken off the stage. The very copy that will appear on theOscar Wilde book auction, is a true collector’s gem -. unique edition on Japanese velin, personally signed by the author and dedicated to his courageous publisher. What other literary work can boast such an exclusive edition, full of not only artistic but also historical charge?
A unique edition of Oscar Wilde’s book an investment opportunity?
Auction Oscar Wilde books are not only a treat for literature lovers, but also an excellent investment opportunity. Rare books, especially those in limited editions, with authors’ autographs and historical pedigrees, are assets with exceptional resistance to market fluctuations. Unlike stocks or cryptocurrencies, they do not lose value over the years. On the contrary, their price often rises, especially when they involve works by iconic figures like Wilde.
Copies of his books on Japanese velin reach dizzying sums at auction. The value of this particular edition may yet increase. That’s because collectors and institutions are increasingly looking for unique works from the turn of the 20th century. However, when investing, it is worth noting the cost of properly storing the copy and preserving it.
Oscar Wilde book auction – details
Oscar Wilde book auctionThe Importance of Being Earnest is a unique event in the collectors’ market, attracting both literature lovers and investors It will be held in 6 days. In addition, registration for participants closes on the same date. The estimated price is between £100,000 and £150,000. However, given the previous sales results of similar editions, the final amount could be much higher.
Luxury News Editor
Joanna Baran
Source: christies.com
