The Life and Adventures of Martin Chuzzlewit

London: Chapman and Hall, 1844. First edition. Leather. Good. 9" by 5.5". Phiz. The first edition, second impression, of Charles Dickens' popular novel about the eponymous Martin Chuzzlewit, illustrated with all thirty-eight plate present. The first edition of this work, being the first edition in book form. Second issue, with '£100' to the engraved title, rather than '100£' which was present in the first issue. Issue points as stated by John C. Eckel in his 1913 publication 'The First Editions of the Writings of Charles Dickens'. Half-title discarded. Illustrated with a frontispiece, engraved title page, and thirty-eight plates. Collated, half-title isn't present, but otherwise work is complete. "Martin Chuzzlewit" is about the eponymous Martin, who goes against his grandfather"s wishes and falls in love with an orphaned girl, intending to marry her. As a result, Martin is disinherited. Charles Dickens has become one of the most famous authors of all time, with his Victorian novels being read world-wide by people of all ages. He begun life working as a journalist, before starting the serial publication of 'The Pickwick Papers', which earned him instant success. Illustrated by Hablot Knight Browne, most often known by his pen name 'Phiz'. As Phiz, he illustrated many of Dickens' novels, including 'David Copperfield', 'Dombey and Son', and 'Bleak House', as well as illustrating for 'Punch' throughout his life. Prior owner's ink inscription to the recto to the front endpaper, 'Fred. R. Johnstone, July 15th 1844'. In a half calf binding with marbled paper to the boards. Externally, generally smart. A small amount of rubbing to the boards and spine. Minor bumping to the head and tail of the spine and to the extremities. Light surface cracks to the spine. Rear hinge is starting but firm. Prior owner's ink inscription to the recto to the front endpaper. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are very lightly age-toned, with some spots and marks, with spots and a little discolouration to the plates. Heavy ink mark to page 320. Good