The Old Curiosity Shop
By Charles Dickens
With Seventy-Five Illustrations by Cattermole & Phiz
Published by Chapman & Hall Limited: London c1930 (undated - prize plate dated 1930)
Notes:
Beautiful presentation binding with marbled text block.
"The Old Curiosity Shop" by Charles Dickens is a sentimental and dramatic tale that follows the tragic journey of Little Nell Trent, a gentle and virtuous young girl, and her elderly grandfather. They live in a ramshackle curiosity shop in London, where the grandfather secretly gambles in a desperate attempt to secure a better future for Nell. His addiction leads to financial ruin, forcing the two to flee into the countryside, pursued by the malevolent and grotesque moneylender Daniel Quilp, who seizes the shop and seeks to control their fate.
As Nell and her grandfather wander through England, they encounter a variety of colorful characters—some kind, some cruel—highlighting the stark contrasts in human nature. Their journey becomes increasingly heartbreaking as Nell's health deteriorates under the strain of their hardships. The novel explores themes of innocence, poverty, greed, and the corrupting influence of money, ultimately ending in a deeply emotional and poignant conclusion. Dickens's portrayal of Nell moved Victorian readers to tears and remains one of his most powerful appeals to the heart."
Light wear to cover/spine as shown. Pages clean, crisp and bright. Prize plate as shown. A beautiful copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
