630 pages, illustrations, maps as endpapers, black cloth, a fine copy in the dust jacket.
Signed and dated 14.12.94 by Mr Mandela on the half title page.
The official launch of the first edition published by MacDonald Purnell (PTY) Ltd, took place and the palatial home (now the Saxon Boutique Hotel) of Douw Steyn, the insurance magnate, on 14th December 1994. The event was strictly by invitation only, even partners were not allowed to attend, and included members of the South African book trade as well as politicians and others. A large marquee was erected near the swimming pool in which the event was held. Mr Mandela arrived late and guests were instructed not to take any flash photographs because of the trouble he was experiencing with his eyes. Apparently he went into a private room where he signed and dated 100 copies and these were sold at the retail price of R79.95. Mr Mandela left soon after delivering his speech.
The present copy was purchased at the launch by the present owner who was the manager of a firm of library suppliers in Johannesburg at the time.
- Jacket Condition: Fine
- Binding Condition: Fine
- Overall Condition: Fine
- Size: : 8vo (240 x 160 mm)
- Sold By: Clarke's Africana & Rare Books
- Contact Person: Paul Mills
- Country: South Africa
- Email: [email protected]
- Telephone: 021 794 0600
- Preferred Payment Methods: Visa & Mastercard via PayGate secure links and Bank transfers.
- Trade Associations: ABA - ILAB, SABDA
