WILLIAM MORRIS: Poet, Craftsman, Socialist
New York and London: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1905. Hardcover. The deluxe "Photogravure Edition" issue, later printing thus. This critical appreciation of William Morris (1834-96) is the fourth in a series of original works on prominent literary figures by the longtime art critic of The New York Times. Cary (1867-1936) placed emphasis on moral earnestness, refinement, and beauty of expression, values that informed her own writing as well as that of her subjects. Large octavo: [1, blank], [1, ads], ix, [1, blank], 296, [2], [4, ads] pp. with the frontispiece and 10 full-page plates, all photogravures with red-printed captioned tissue guards, after photographs, paintings, and drawings, as well as a full-page color halftone, 20 full-page halftones, and chapter heads and tail pieces, all wood engravings. The title page is printed in maroon and black. In the publisher's midnight blue vertical fine-ribbed cloth binding, designed by Margaret Armstrong, with gilt-stamped silhouette designs of ironwork and grapevine, incorporating ovals panels with titling. Top edge gilt, with buff endpapers and a white silk ribbon. Light wear to the corners and tips; else near fine. Provenance: from the Publishers' Bookbindings collection of Ellen K. Morris and Edward S. Levin. Near fine. Item #79007
Price: $200.00