ERNEST HEMINGWAY (1899–1961), SIGNED COPY OF DEATH IN THE AFTERNOON, CIRCA 1932 ERNEST HEMINGWAY (1899–1961), SIGNED COPY OF DEATH IN THE AFTERNOON, CIRCA 1932

Provenance and Authenticity:

This copy of Death in the Afternoon bears a handwritten autograph of Ernest Hemingway on the title page beneath the printed author credit. The signature reads “Ernest Hemingway” in flowing cursive and appears to have been written directly on the page in dark ink. The autograph style corresponds with known examples of Hemingway’s signature, characterized by the elongated script and distinctive horizontal flourish beneath the surname. Signed copies of Hemingway’s works were often obtained through personal presentation, literary gatherings, or correspondence during the author’s lifetime.

Signature:

Signed “Ernest Hemingway” on the title page.

Description:

The volume is bound in dark cloth boards featuring a subtle embossed design on the cover. The title page reads Death in the Afternoon by Ernest Hemingway and includes a small bull vignette beneath the title, referencing the book’s subject matter. The publisher imprint reads P. F. Collier & Son Corporation, New York. Hemingway’s autograph appears prominently on the title page beneath the printed author name. The signature is clear and well positioned, standing out against the lightly toned paper. The binding shows moderate wear consistent with age and handling, while the interior pages appear generally clean and well preserved.

Historical significance:

Published in 1932, Death in the Afternoon is Hemingway’s influential nonfiction work exploring the traditions and cultural significance of Spanish bullfighting. The book combines detailed historical discussion with philosophical reflections on courage, mortality, and the aesthetics of ritualized combat. It is considered one of the most important literary treatments of bullfighting and offers significant insight into Hemingway’s broader themes of bravery, honor, and the human confrontation with death.

Valuation:

Signed copies of Hemingway’s early works are highly desirable among collectors of twentieth-century literature. Copies of Death in the Afternoon bearing clear author signatures attract particular interest due to the book’s cultural significance and its place within Hemingway’s early career. Value depends on the edition, condition, and the clarity and placement of the autograph.

Karl's Collections Inc provides condition reports as a courtesy to our clients and assumes no liability for any error or omission. Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, and is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Descriptions are our opinions and should in no way be construed as a guarantee of any kind as to age, condition, mater.