Il Gattopardo. Lampedusa, Giuseppe Tomasi Di.

First edition, first printing, of one of the most celebrated works of modern Italian literature, rare in such bright condition. This tale of the decay of Sicilian aristocracy was rejected by two leading Italian publishers and Lampedusa did not live to see it in print. It was an immediate best-seller, and in 1959 Lampedusa was posthumously awarded the prestigious Strega Prize. Il Gattopardo was published in an edition of 2,000 copies, dated November 1958 facing the title page and 25 October 1958 at the rear colophon. Octavo. Original yellow boards lettered in black, front cover illustrated in orange. No jacket issued. Text in Italian. Neat ink ownership inscription, "Mario Boeri dicembre '58", on title page; loosely inserted publisher's promotional bookmark. Spine slightly cocked and toned, a few marks to rear cover, text block toned: a bright, near-fine copy.