A limited first edition of Aldous Huxley (1894-1963), "Eyeless in Gaza" (London: Chatto & Windus, 1936), signed by Huxley on the limitation page as: "Aldous Huxley." Stated "special edition" on the limitation page, limited edition 85/200. Hardcover, with Art Deco stylized black and white patterned boards and gilt lettering on the spine. The original dust jacket shows the original price listing of "10s.6d. Net." A black and gilt label reading "W. & G. Foyle Ltd. / 119-125 Charing Cross Rd / London WC2" is discretely adhered to the front cover pastedown page, and the item is accompanied by an original receipt dated June 29, 1936 from W. & G. Foyle Ltd., London booksellers. Expected wear including scattered minor foxing to the deckled page edges and textblock, else very good. The cover shows some gentle rubbing to the corners and edges, else near fine. The dust jacket in still vibrant aubergine is good, with some uneven toning, closed tears, chipping, isolated loss, and repairs. 6" x 8.625" x 1.75." 8vo. 620pp.

The title of Huxley's best-selling novel, "Eyeless in Gaza" alluded to a line from John Milton's poem, "Samson Agonistes." Samson, the Biblical hero of extraordinary strength who was duped by Delilah, had had his eyes gouged out by the Philistines. Later, the "eyeless" slave was sentenced to work at a mill grinding grain in Gaza.

Aldous Huxley was a British expatriate writer who explored the literary subgenres of social satire, science fiction, and philosophy. He was nominated nine times for the Nobel Prize in Literature for such works as "Brave New World" (1932).

Aldous Huxley signed versions of this title--without the rare dust jacket--are listed for over $1,200 on Abebooks.com. This piece should certainly exceed that amount, even with the minor condition issues affecting the dust jacket.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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