For the romantic … a complete three-volume edition of “The Romance of the Rose,” published by J. M. Dent & Sons of London in 1937 as part of the Temple Classics series. Bound in matching dark blue cloth, the compact volumes feature elaborate gilt spine decoration, illustrated endpapers, and highly ornamental title pages printed in black and red. The books remain in very good vintage condition with tight, clean bindings, and would make a welcome addition to a gentleman’s library.
Originally composed in thirteenth-century France, The Romance of the Rose is an allegorical poem about courtly love, philosophy, and the pursuit of an idealized rose. Its English translator, Frederick Startridge Ellis, was a close friend and collaborator of William Morris, whose work helped shape the Arts and Crafts movement. Founded in 1888, J. M. Dent & Sons brought a similar attention to book design in its affordable editions of classic literature. The Morris influence is evident in our edition’s floral ornament, title pages, and richly gilt-decorated cloth bindings, all inspired by the poem’s medieval origins.
Dimensions (Each Book): 4” x 6-1/16” x 7/16”
Weight (Combined): 15.3 ounces
Condition Notes: Overall in very good vintage condition, with clean, well-preserved pages and tight, sound bindings. Dark blue cloth retains strong, consistent color, with no visible fading or discoloration. Decorative gilt spine lettering and ornament remain bright, clear, and well preserved, with only light edge wear at top of spine consistent with age and careful use. Front covers feature a blind-stamped owl device associated with J. M. Dent’s Temple Classics series. Several pages in Volume 1 have folded-over corners (dog-ears), as shown in photos. Remaining interiors appear clean and well kept, with light age-related toning to endpapers and page edges. Illustrated endpapers and highly ornamental title pages remain well preserved, including thin protective tissue guards over frontispieces. All three volumes retain matching gilt-decorated cloth bindings and present attractively as a complete set. Other items in photos not included.
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