This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 7/8/2004.
Pre-eminent 19th century American writer, humorist. Original hand etching on heavy copper plate, 5.25" x 3", self-portrait created by Clemens, signed and inscribed by him to "Hamilton W. Mabie - With the kindest regards of Mark Twain" on attached sheet, with etched explanatory note: "Done by Truly Yours Mark Twain. N.B. I cannot make a good mouth, therefore leave it out. There is enough without it anyway. Done with the best ink. M.T." Engraving presented as gift to guest at his memorable 67th birthday celebration dinner, in his speech that evening Clemens stated: "I see here around me the captains of industry...there are more than fifty here [fifty-four attended, sitting at one large oval table] I believe out of those fifty I know thirty-nine of them well. I could probably borrow money from - well - from the others anyway." Engraving attached by original ribbons to original leather case with gold embossed "Mr. Hamilton W. Mabie", accompanied by original menu and seating plan listing all guests, entire archive housed in custom case. Only a handful of these engravings still exist. This lot comes with a letter from PSA/DNA.