G. VERDI, LES VÊPRES SICILIENNES, VOCAL SCORE, PARIS: ESCUDIER, 1855

FIRST EDITION, large 4to (c.33 x 26cm), 415 pages, lithographed title by Vialon ("sur étain par A. Vialon"), engraved music, plate no. L.E. 1500 ('Ballet': L.E. 1501 (1-4), priced at 30f, contemporary green calf-backed boards, a clean copy

Hopkinson 56A (a); Chusid, p.170

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This large and imposing score of Verdi's first French Grand Opera was published just a few weeks after the premiere at the Opéra on 13 June 1855, and may have been prepared during the rehearsals. Some separate numbers were advertised in June 1855 (perhaps reflected in the plate numbers and dual paginations), but no early issues are traced by Hopkinson.