Hemingway, Ernest (Oak Park, 21 luglio 1899 – Ketchum, 2 luglio 1961), 1940-1954

The typewriter is from the HERMES BABY portable series, serial number 5185774 (printed on the cart) complete with a carrying case, featuring a brass plate engraved with the name ERNEST HEMINGWAY.

"Across the River and Into the Trees," first English edition, with dust jacket, Ex Libris on the inside cover, dedication and autograph signature by the author: "Venice, April 4, 1954 - To Aldino, my 'drinking buddy' - Ernest Hemingway."

Accompanying postcard written by the Locanda Cipriani in Torgello, dated April 4, 1954, which reads: "Dearest Aldino, thanks for your alcoholic/pharmacologic hospitality in Saint Alò 7, where I forgot my Hermes Baby - It's yours now! With my heart - Papa."

In the spring of 1954, Hemingway returned to Italy, returning to Venice, after an African adventure in which a plane crash had left him seriously injured. Arnaldo Zamperetti joined him in Venice and took him to Bologna, where he was examined by doctor friends who prescribed the appropriate treatment. On that occasion, he stayed at the Zamperetti home for a few days, where, upon leaving, he forgot his portable Hermes Baby typewriter, which he later left as a gift to his friend from Bologna. Evidence of this is the book and postcard sent from Venice, which are being sold in this lot.

The HERMES BABY is reputed to have been the most popular portable typewriter in the world. Its creator is believed to have been the Italian Giuseppe Prezioso in the early 1930s. It was produced and marketed by the Swiss manufacturer Paillard & Cie SA. The HERMES BABY has undergone slight changes in appearance over the years, but the distinctive features of this version, such as the sheet metal frame, the heat-shrink aluminum casing, the unique hammered gray paint finish, the type of keys, and the logo painted on the body, place it in the 1940s. Case with retractable handle; when closed, it measures approximately 7 x 28 x 28 cm.

Typewriter in overall excellent condition.

The volume is in fair condition, showing signs of use and age, with some losses, tears, and loose binding. It is clear that this volume is not considered ideal for a book collection, but is considered a memorabilia due to its provenance and handwritten dedication.

Hemingway's signatures and writings in the collection have been subjected to a meticulous handwriting appraisal, of which a documentary copy can be attached.