The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer
Norwalk, CT: Easton Press, 2009. Hardcover. Number 84 of 425 copies . This is the deluxe limited edition replica of the 1896 William Morris edition, issued in 425 copies. This is a magnificent production from the Easton Press and a fitting tribute to the original masterpiece from the Kelmscott Press. From the prospectus: "This special oversized, heirloom edition includes all of the illustrations originally provided by Sir Edward Burne-Jones (there were 87 illustrations) and it features the borders, decorations, and initials as drawn by William Morris. The typeface and de-bossed cover design expertly replicate in fine detail those created specifically for this masterpiece. Beautiful marbled endsheets and gilded page ends are lavish enhancements that also provide incomparable durability." Bound in specially crafted white leather imported from Italy. The cover design, done in gilt replicates the beautiful binding done by the Doves Bindery in 1900 for about fifty copies in white pigskin, the covers tooled in gilt with a border enclosing a design of gouge-work stems, convolvulus flowers, and heart-shaped leaves; spine with six bands and offset head caps, tooled in gilt; plain endleaves. All edges gilt. Marbled endpapers by Peggy Skycraft of Skycraft Designs. Printed on Mohawk Ultrafelt warm white paper specially milled for this edition by Mohawk Fine Papers. Accompanied by a four page prospectus that discusses the history of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, followed by a short history of the Kelmscott Press. Also inserted is an Easton Press bookplate. Housed in a green cloth covered clamshell box. In fine condition. Measures 11.5 x 16.5 inches. 554 pages. PRI/012624. Fine. More