THE NOBEL LAUREATE IN FINE PRESS FORM

Mann, Thomas (1875–1955)

A Sketch of My Life [Signed by Thomas Mann] [Harrison of Paris] [Limited to 75 Copies on Imperial Japanese Vellum]

France: Harrison of Paris, 1930. Limited Edition.
THE MODERNIST ELEGANCE OF HARRISON OF PARIS — MONROE WHEELER DESIGN.
A beautifully preserved signed copy of 'A Sketch of My Life'—one of only 75 copies printed on Imperial Japanese vellum. Published by Monroe Wheeler's Harrison of Paris shortly after Mann was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature (1929), this memoir captures the author at the summit of his international fame.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Features the distinctive Harrison of Paris typographic restraint; printed on shimmering, heavy-weight Imperial Japanese vellum.
+++ Binding: Quarter-bound in vellum over stiff paper boards, housed in the original protective slipcase. 
+++ Content: A rare autobiographical reflection by Mann, detailing his family origins and his early literary triumphs. 
+++ Associated Names: Thomas Mann (Author; Signatory); Monroe Wheeler (Designer/Publisher). 
+++ Provenance: Originating from the Harrison of Paris / Monroe Wheeler archive. 
+++ Rarity: Scarce in this state; one of the ultra-limited issue of 75 copies.
+++ Imprint: Printed in France for Harrison of Paris. This copy features the rare errata slip noting the limitation increase from 50 to 75 copies. 
+++ Specs: Octavo (approx. 8.25 inches tall); [10], 11-75 pages.

CONDITION: Fine -- The vellum remains creamy and bright; the text block is pristine. The slipcase is solid with only minimal shelf handling.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE - 
Thomas Mann remains a titan of 20th-century literature, and this 1930 memoir represents a vital moment of self-assessment before the impending upheaval of the 1930s. It is one of the earliest and most sought-after productions of the Harrison of Paris press, which sought to bring European literary giants to the American market in exceptionally fine formats.

For the bibliophile, the 'Imperial Japan Vellum' issue is the ultimate state of this title. It showcases Monroe Wheeler’s early genius for materials and manufacture, establishing the press's reputation for luxury that never sacrificed editorial integrity.

SUBJECTS: Thomas Mann, Harrison of Paris, Monroe Wheeler, Nobel Prize Authors, German Literature, Autobiography, Fine Press Printing, Signed Edition, Limited Edition, Memoir, Fine Press, Association Copy.

Item #21932

Price: $1,800.00