Ashbee, C.R.

[Essex House in Vellum]. An Endeavor Towards the Teaching of John Ruskin and William Morris.

London: Edward Arnold [Essex House Press], 1901. First Edition. First edition. #86 of 350 hand-numbered copies.

Bound in full limp vellum with gilt-lettered spine. This was the first book printed in the pica type designed by C. R. Ashbee and known as the “Endeavour” type. Of this type, Ashbee stated that he “sought to follow upon the lines laid down by Morris. . . and the introduction of a rather Gothic and perhaps uncial feeling.” Crawford, C.R. Ashbee. Architect, Designer & Romantic Socialist (1985, pg. 386).

With near full-page woodcut illustration on title page, and numerous historiated initials by George Thomson. On meeting Morris, Ashbee’s journal notes that “old Morris was delightful, firing up the warmth of his subject, all the enthusiasm of youth thrilling through veins and muscles.” MacCarthy, William Morris (1994, pg. 523).

8vo. [vi], 52pp., [1]. Tomkinson 16. Ransom 16. Crawford 16. Ashbee, pg. 68. Scarce in commerce with only one copy appearing in auction in the 21st century. Very good with evidence of prior owner bookplate removal to front pastedown. Item #287

Price: $600.00