This is a Zaehnsdorf binding that has stood the test of time. Zaehnsdorf is and has been one the most appreciated and respected binders in the world. This book is in half-leather but might also be called three-quarter leather because of the size of the leather component at the outer extremities of the boards. The six compartment spine is lettered in gilt and the gilt is still bright and fine. There is a tiny bit of wear to the extreme top of the rear board where it meets the spine. It is very small. There are also one or two pointlike wear spots elsewhere that are nearly invisible. The binding is in Fine condition. This is the second edition of this title that was originally published in 1903. This volume was published in 1908. The textblock is outstanding and there is no foxing present. There are a couple of leaves of advertisements in the rear of the book which I have scanned a page or two of for you. Very interesting ads! There is also a list at the front of the book of other works of Samuel Butler as well as their then current prices. The Way of All Flesh is a very important piece of literature. Samuel Butler was reared in the family of a strict clergyman. He patterned his main character in The Way of All Flesh after his own father. The character's name is Theobald Pontifex and he is finely written. Aimed at a type of parent-children relationship that bred malajusted, introverted children, the novel depicts one son who broke the parental ties. He thereby freed himself to make his own way in life. Pointing to the foibles of his fellow man, or probing the motive of an indignant parent, or parodying a controversy of ideas, Butler's wit and his sarcastic humor always lighten the heavy tones of his social commentary. We are pleased to send pictures on request.