8 5/8 x 5 3/4 in (22 x 14.5 cm)

Provenance and Authentication:
This collectible has undergone a rigorous forensic evaluation. The signatures were carefully analyzed across multiple criteria, including ink deposition, material aging characteristics, stylistic consistency, and historical alignment. The findings provide a sound basis for authenticity and historical context, and the piece is accompanied by comprehensive documentation supporting both its provenance and verification.

This signed copy of Dombey and Son stands as a substantial and historically grounded example of Charles Dickens's literary legacy. Published in 1848 by Bradbury and Evans in London, the novel marks a mature phase in Dickens's career, exploring themes of commerce, pride, family rupture, and emotional redemption with increasing psychological depth.

The signature appears on the title page, the most authoritative and culturally accepted location for authorial inscription during the nineteenth century. Dickens was known to sign presentation copies, review copies, and select personal volumes in precisely this manner, making the placement entirely consistent with established practice.

The autograph itself is executed with assured, flowing penmanship. The long, expressive horizontal strokes and confident rhythm align closely with Dickens's documented signing style from the late 1840s. The signature integrates naturally with the printed page, conveying immediacy and unmistakable authorial presence rather than later attribution.

Condition-wise, the book shows clear signs of age and use. The binding is weakened, with the front cover close to detaching and several preliminary pages loose. While these factors affect structural integrity, they do not diminish the historical legitimacy of the signed title page, which remains the primary value driver for collectors of signed literary works. In the market for Dickens material, authenticated signatures often outweigh binding condition, particularly for mid-career signed novels of this importance.

Within the field of literary collectibles, signed books by Charles Dickens remain among the most consistently sought-after artifacts. Dombey and Son occupies a critical position between Dickens's early popular successes and his later masterpieces, making a signed copy especially desirable. This volume represents a direct, physical connection to one of the foundational voices of English literature.

All sold 'as is,’. The absence of a condition report does not necessarily guarantee an excellent condition. The Buyer is advised to seek independent expert advice in order to be assured of the authenticity and true state of the good.If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via email: info@saltlakegallery.com