Identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautifully designed mid-century edition of Honoré de Balzac's classic French realist novel, 'Old Goriot'. Published jointly by the Heritage Press and the Nonesuch Press, it features translation by Ellen Marriage, an introduction by François Mauriac, and charming color illustrations by René Ben Sussan. Crucially, it retains its original 'Sandglass' insert, which served as a monthly newsletter and companion guide for members of the Heritage Club.
Story
Lineage validated. Co-published by Heritage Press and Nonesuch Press, representing standard mid-century accessible fine press production. Market context established. Buyer demand is concentrated in decorative vintage applications rather than rare book collecting. Inventory moves predictably at the $20 price point.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Condition parameters processed. Final valuation assumes standard vintage wear, with value highly dependent on the unverified slipcase. The book is in very good condition with minor shelf wear to the spine ends and corners. The patterned paper boards are clean and bright, and the interior pages are crisp.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market context established. Buyer demand is concentrated in decorative vintage applications rather than rare book collecting. Inventory moves predictably at the $20 price point.
▲ Presence of original 'Sandglass' insert anchors the upper tier.
▲ Heritage Press/Nonesuch Press dual-imprint confirms decorative market appeal.
▼ Unverified slipcase presence — absence drops valuation to the $15 floor.
Best Venue
List at $25 on eBay or Etsy.
Upside Potential
Verification of a pristine original slipcase and flawless binding shifts the asset to the $30+ premium tier.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.