The Odyssey of Homer: Done into English Verse
London: Reeves & Turner, 1887.
Signed first edition of this translation, "ordinary" issue with price on spine label. Complete in two volumes. LeMire A-40.01. vii, [1], 230, [2, ads]; vii, [1], [231]-450 pp. Original paper-covered boards with spine labels printed in black. Very Good with thorough darkening to both volumes' spines, some light scratching and rubbing there as well; light stain to front board of Vol. II; corners a little bumped; contents bright and free of marks.
Presentation copy signed by William Morris on the edge of the half-title, inscribed "to Eirkr Magnusson, with William Morris' best wishes." Magnusson was an Icelandic scholar and University of Cambridge librarian, who also had been Morris' teacher, and would be his friend and co-translator of a number of Scandanavian epics from 1869 to the close of the 19th century. A very nice association between the dynamo of the British Arts and Crafts movement and his mentor/muse in the art of translation.
Price: $4,500.00