Rubaiyat.
With an introduction by A. C. Benson. Reproduced from a manuscript written and illuminated by F. Sangorski & G. Sutcliffe.
London: Siegle, Hill & Co., [1911] Stock Code: 142428
Luxuriously bound
First edition thus, number 79 of 550 copies signed by Francis Sangorski and George Sutcliffe and printed on handmade paper (a further 25 were printed on japon), in a striking binding by Bayntun-Riviere, one of the most lavish editions of the Rubáiyát.The prestigious London bindery Sangorski and Sutcliffe made a speciality of fabulous bindings. Finished in 1911, their masterpiece, the "Great Omar", was a splendid illuminated manuscript of the Rubáiyát in an elaborate jewelled binding, written and illuminated by Alberto Sangorski (1862-1932), brother of Francis, co-founder, with George Sutcliffe, of the bindery. By the time it was lost aboard the Titanic in 1912, Alberto had fallen out with his brother, who would not let him sign his manuscripts, and taken his talents to Sangorski & Sutcliffe's rivals, Riviere & Son, where he was free to sign his own work. Meanwhile Sangorski & Sutcliffe issued this deluxe edition, reproducing the fine illuminations of their lost masterpiece.
Description
Large quarto (326 x 241 mm). Mid-20th-century red morocco by Bayntun-Riviere, twin black morocco labels, covers ornately decorated and bejewelled with snake and chalice onlay design within Moorish frame, gilt turn-ins, marbled endpapers, gilt edges. Housed in a red cloth box, spine lettered in gilt.
Illustrations
Title page printed in red and black, opening double-page spread with elaborate calligraphic borders, 10 colour illustrations by E. Geddes, calligraphy by A. Sutcliffe.
Condition
Single jewel lacking, slight crease to initial blank; still a fine copy.
Bibliography
Potter 81.
DELIVERY
With the exception of framed items*, Peter Harrington offers free delivery on all UK orders of rare books, maps and prints placed through this website. Delivery to USA and the rest of the world is similarly free for orders over £200.
ABOUT US
Established in 1969, Peter Harrington is one of the leading rare book firms in the world. It is a proud member of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association – along with ILAB, the PBFA and Lapada – and from shops in Mayfair and Chelsea, London, sells rare books, prints and ephemera to customers across the world.
Email: mail@peterharrington.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)20 7591 0220
