DICKENS, Charles (1812-1870). The Personal History of David Copperfield. London: Bradbury & Evans, 1850.

8vo. Engraved frontispiece, additional engraved vignette title-page, and 38 plates after Hablot K. Browne ["Phiz"]. 20th century polished calf gilt, spine in 6 compartments with 5 raised bands, red and green morocco lettering-pieces gilt in 2, others gilt tooled, all edges gilt, stamp-signed by Bumpus; slipcase. Provenance: Armorial bookplates.

FIRST EDITION bound from the original parts (stab holes present). David Copperfield first appeared in nineteen monthly parts between May 1849 and November 1850. In his preface to the 1869 edition, Dickens writes: "Of all my books, I like this the best. It will be easily believed that I am a fond parent to every child of my fancy, and that no one can ever love that family as dearly as I love them. But, like many fond parents, I have in my heart of hearts a favourite child. And his name is David Copperfield." Eckel, p.77; Gimbel A122; Hatton & Cleaver pp.251-272; Sadleir 686; Smith I:9. A BRIGHT COPY.