Morris, William

[Gaskin, Arthur J.] Good King Wenceslas

Birmingham: Oornish Brothers, 1895.

Quarto, 10 1/2 x 7 1/2 inches. Original publisher's full gray paper-covered boards with quarter-page cover illustration by Gaskin stamped in black. Decorated title-page, plus six superb wood-engraved full-page illustrations by the renowned artist, illustrator, jewellery designer, silversmith, and designer for William Morris's Kelmscott Press. Introduction by William Morris, a true feather in the publisher's cap, in which Morris offers a half-page explanation of the poem, "written to suit a Medieval tune by Dr. John Mason Neale.." etc. He further adds, regarding Gaskin's illustrations: "... I cannot help saying that they [the pictures in the book] have given me very much pleasure, both as achievements in themselves and as giving hopes of a turn towards the ornamental side of illustration, which is most desirable." Printed on one-side only on delicate paper which often found torn or damaged. Our copy is in fine condition, with very clean boards, lenght of spine and internally without blemish; very minor bumping to corners and unobstrusive toning of pastedown from plastic jacket.

Price: $525.00   Item #7053