An antique American book, Father Goriot, by Honore de Balzac. Translated by Ellen Marriage and James Waring with an introduction by George Saintsbury. Published by Avil Publishing Company, Philadelphia, USA. Copyrighted 1901 by John D. Avil. Leather Hardcover. Originally published in serial form during the winter of 1834–35, Father Goriot is widely considered Balzacs most important novel. It marks the first serious use by the author of characters who had appeared in other books, a technique that distinguishes Balzacs fiction. The novel is also noted as an example of his realist style, using minute details to create character and subtext. Antique and Vintage Books, Albums, Newspapers, Magazines, and Collectibles.