The Decoration of Houses.

WHARTON, Edith & Ogden Codman Jr..

Item Number: 5032

New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1897.

First edition of Edith Wharton’s first published book. Octavo, original marbled paper boards. Illustrated with 56 plates. In very good condition with some wear to the spine extremities. A nice example of an important work on interior design.

Written in collaboration with celebrated American architect Ogden Codman, Jr., Wharton's first book is a comprehensive look at the history and character of turn-of-the-century interior design, moving from historical traditions to the distinctive styles of contemporary taste. It is considered a seminal work and its success led to the emergence of professional decorators working in the manner advocated by its authors. Garrison A2.1.a.