The Transformation of Lucius Otherwise Known as The Golden Ass, Lucius Apuleius, Signed

The Transformation of Lucius, Otherwise Known As The Golden Ass.

By Lucius Apuleius. Translated by Robert Graves.

A new and complete rendering of the best-known novel of ancient Rome including The Fable of Cupid and Psyche.

Published by Penguin Books, 1951.

This edition of Apuleius' Golden Ass, translated by Robert Graves, was first published in 1951. The typography and the binding were designed by Jan Tschichold. It is set in Monotype Lutetia, and printed by Silk & Terry Ltd, London and Birmingham, on Blue-White Wove paper made by Wiggins, Teape & Co, Ltd. The binding, with marbled paper supplied by Douglas Cockerell & Son, is by James Burn & Co, London.

The edition is limited to 2000 copies numbered and signed by the translator of which this is No. 756.

A special arrangement was made with Robert Graves, who was unhappy about a paperback edition of his work preceding any hardbound version. The accommodation reached was to produce a special version, in a limited edition of 2,000 - every copy of which was shipped out to Mallorca for Graves to sign (someone at Penguin had already numbered them). This was probably one of the last books designed by Jan Tscichold, and there is no detail nor expense spared. It is printed on specially made paper; with a vellum spine and marbled boards, stamped in gold with slipcase. A contemporary review regarded this as a minor gem of bookmaking, and mentioned specifically the 'last touch in refinement - almost invisible vellum tips to match the vellum spine.

Condition:

The book measures 12.5cm x 19.5cm.

The slipcase is well worn and discoloured, with partial splitting edges at the top and bottom. Despite the wear it remains perfectly functional. The book originally came with dust jacket, no longer present. The book cover is in good condition, marbled boards remain striking, with only minor rubbing along the edges. The vellum spine is in good condition, yellowed slightly with age, no splitting with hinges holding firm. Gilt title on spine bright. Contents is good, clean bright pages, binding tight. Top edge gilt, a little rubbed. Bottom and fore edge a little toned/discoloured. Contents appears complete other than the removal of blank paper between the final page and the signed/numbered page. Partial torn page remains can be seen in the gutter here. There are no previous owner inscriptions, highlighting or notes (Other than Robert Graves!). Overall binding tight and firm.

Overall the book remains in good reading condition, with condition issues found typical with age and use.  

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