ASHENDENE PRESS
MALORY (THOMAS) The Noble and Joyous Book Entytled Le Morte Darthur, one of 145 copies on paper, from an overall edition of 153, printed in Subiaco type, chapter headings and shoulder notes in red, 4- to 8-line initials designed by Graily Hewitt printed alternately in red and blue, 29 woodcut illustrations (2 full-page) by W.H. Hooper and J.B. Swain after designs by C.M. and Margaret Gere, extremities free endpapers brittle with a few small losses, original dark brown calf by W.H. Smith (signed 'W.H.S.' in blind inside lower cover), rebacked to match preserving original gilt morocco spine labels, a few light abrasions and fading to sides, modern solander box [Hornby 26], folio, Chelsea, Ashendene Press, 1913
Footnotes:
LEONARD BASKIN'S COPY. Writing to St. John Hornby at the Ashendene Press, Sydney Cockerell enthused that 'The Morte d'Arthur is a glorious piece of printing and... it is an achievement of which you and all who follow the developments of fine craftsmanship in England may well be proud... The presswork is miraculous. Black, red and blue are all quite perfect, with never anywhere so much as a hint of a spread'. The text follows the edition of William Caxton.

Provenance: Leonard Baskin, pencil inscription inside lower cover.
This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: •
• Zero rated for VAT, no VAT will be added to the Hammer Price or the Buyer's Premium.