A first edition of Jane Austen's classic novel Emma is expected to sell for as much as £100,000 (€115,037) when it is auctioned later this year.
The writer sent the book, shortly after it was published in 1816, to fellow novelist Maria Edgeworth whose family have put it up for sale.
The December 16th auction at Sotheby’s also includes a Wedgwood dinner set that belonged to Austen’s brother Edward which is expected to sell for around £70,000.
Peter Selley, from the auction house’s books and manuscripts department, said: “It is extremely rare for items with a Jane Austen association to be offered for sale and this is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a unique component of Austen family life.”
Austen was a great admirer of Edgeworth who is regarded as one of the pioneers of the historical novel in English literature, but letters written at the time make it clear Edgeworth was not a fan of the book.
The story of the spoiled young woman who fancies herself as a matchmaker has been adapted for film and television several times with actresses including Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Beckinsale in the title role.
The plot also provided the basis for the 1995 film Clueless which starred Alicia Silverstone and transferred the story to modern-day Beverly Hills.
PA
