Pictures From Italy.

DICKENS, Charles.

$700.00

Item Number: 147700

London: Bradbury & Evans, 1846.

First edition of Dickens’ classic travelogue. Octodecimo, half calf bound in three quarter morocco with gilt titles and tooling to the spine in five compartments within raised bands, morocco spine labels lettered in gilt, all edges marbled, with vignette illustrations on wood by Samuel Palmer. In near fine condition.

In 1844, Dickens took a respite from writing novels and for several months traveled through France and Italy with his family. They visited the most famous sights: Genoa, Rome, Naples (with Vesuvius still smoldering), Florence and Venice. In his travelogue the author portrays a nation of great contrasts: grandiose buildings and urban desolation, and everyday life beside ancient monuments. But it is his encounters with Italy's colorful street life that capture the imagination. Dickens is particularly drawn to the costumes, cross-dressing, and sheer exuberance of the Roman carnival. From the book we learn that Dickens was an early riser and walker, and that he enjoyed touring the major attractions on foot.