[Printed on Vellum | Presentation Copy] The Dickens-Kolle Letters

Smith, Harry B. (editor). The Dickens-Kolle Letters. Boston: The Bibliophile Society, 1910. The only known copy printed on vellum, presented to Smith from the Bibliophile Society. Printed on French-folded vellum. Contains two illustrations of Dickens, one being the frontispiece, an etching by W.H.W. Bicknell from the study (in oil) by W.R. Frith, and the second a facsimile of a pencil sketch of Dickens; also includes a facsimile reproduction of a single-page poem of 8 lines "To Ariel", signed by Dickens, dated October of 1838, with a cartoon character drawn at the bottom of the page, and several other facsimile letters. The frontis etching is printed on vellum, but the remaining illustrations and facsimile letters are printed on Japan vellum. The original photo negatives of the pencil sketch and the poem are loosely inserted. Bound in vellum-covered boards with gilt lettering and Bibliophile Society seal in red to spine. Measures approx. 6.75" x 9". Some soiling and spotting to covers. The first two French-folded leaves of the text have been split at the top.

This copy is listed on page 108 of Smith's A Sentimental Library: Comprising Books Formerly Owned by Famous Writers, Presentation copies, Manuscripts, and Drawings. Smith's library was purchased en bloc by A.S.W. Rosenbach for $79,000 in 1915 (link).