THE BOOK OF WISDOM AND LIES; ; A book of Traditional Stories from Georgia in Asia
Hammersmith: Published by Kelmscott Press, Hammersmith, 1894, 1894. Limited / numbered. Vellum. Limited Edition. Octavo, 8 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches (207 cm x 140 mm); pp. [2] + xviii + 256; Limited Edition of 250 copies; on Flower paper, Woodcut title within an elaborate woodcut border, first page of text within a similar border, numerous woodcut initials, woodcut printer’s device. Printed in red and black in Golden type. Full limp vellum with beige broken ties. A fine copy.
COLOPHON: HERE endeth The Book of Wisdom & Lies, a / Georgian Story-book of the eighteenth century, / by Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani: translated, with / notes, by Oliver Wardrop. Printed by William / Morris at the Kelmscott Press, 14 Upper Mall, / Hammersmith, in the County of Middlesex; / & finished on the 29th day of September, 1894. / [printer's mark 1] / Sold by Bernard Quaritch, 15 Piccadilly, W.
[Peterson A28; Tomkinson p. 114 no. 28; Ransom p. 328, no. 24]. One of the most famous works by the 17-18th century Georgian diplomat and man of letters, containing Sufic and other narratives, tales and anecdotes. "Racy, clear and humorous-though the serious parts also read convincingly.
A collection of traditional Georgian stories. The date when 'The Book of Wisdom & Lies' was finished is not known, but it seems to be subsequent to Orbeliani's travels, since we find in the stories references to Rome, France, Constantinople..." (Introduction). Very good. Item #486
Price (USD): $5,200.00