A charming early twentieth-century leather-bound pocket edition of the Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, published by George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd.
One of the most widely read works of Eastern literature in the English-speaking world, the Rubáiyát became immensely popular following Edward FitzGerald's celebrated translation. This compact edition features decorative title pages, monochrome photographic illustrations and a beautifully embossed soft leather binding, designed to be carried and read.
The volume displays an attractive aged patina and retains its original leather covers, although the binding has become detached from the text block. Despite its condition issues, it remains an appealing copy for collectors of illustrated poetry, fine bindings and Persian literature.
Key Information
- Title: Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám
- Author: Omar Khayyám
- Translator: Edward FitzGerald
- Publisher: George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd.
- Date: c.1905–1925
- Binding: Original embossed limp leather binding
- Language: English
- Illustrations: Monochrome photographic plates
Condition Report
- Original embossed leather binding with heavy age-related wear.
- Front cover and text block detached from the spine.
- Spine heavily worn with losses.
- Pages complete and generally clean with age toning.
- Decorative title pages remain well preserved.
- Contemporary ownership inscription to the front.
- Suitable as a reading or collection copy rather than an investment-grade example.