The Kelmscott Press's Works of Geoffrey Chaucer, Limited Edition, New

This is a limited edition facsimile of the Kelmscott Press production of Chaucer's works, held by many to be the most exquisite book of printed English literature. It was originally published in 1896 by William Morris with illustrations by Sir Edward Burne-Jones. It was the final book printed by the Kelmscott Press under Morris and remains the only major effort to illustrate all of Chaucer's works. Morris had a clear goal in mind when creating this edition: "A book ornamented with pictures that are suitable for that book, and that book only, may become a work of art second to none, save a fine binding duly ornamented or a fine piece of literature."

The Easton Press spared no expense in the production of this deluxe limited edition that was limited to 425 copies. The limitation number of the book is not known since the book is in the publisher’s original shrinkwrap. Measuring 17" x 11.5" and containing 576 pages, the book is bound in beautiful embossed full leather bounds and features silk moiré endpapers, gold gilded covers, gold gilting on the page ends, and a built in silk bookmark. The book is housed in a specially designed slipcase that serves to protect and display the volume. Laid into the book is the Declaration of Authenticity from the Easton Press indicating the limitation number which is also included on the limitation page of the book.

From the publisher: Easton Press is pleased to announce a major event in its publishing history. Presenting The Kelmscott Press's The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer, re-created from the rare and beautiful masterpiece originally published in 1896.

This exclusive Easton Press Deluxe re-creation features:

• The complete works of the first great author of the English language, including the Canterbury Tales.
• All 87 woodcuts by renowned Victorian-era artist, Sir Edward Burne-Jones.
• The Borders, decorations, and initials drawn by William Morris himself.
• The unique typeface created by Morris specifically for this masterpiece.
• A magnificent Morris-designed cover.
• An elegant fabric-covered slipcase to protect and display your volume.

The condition of the book is MINT which is still in the publisher’s shrinkwrap and housed in the original clamshell box within the original shipping carton.

Photographs of the prospectus and some examples of the illustrations in the book appear in the photo section of the listing.