The works of Geoffrey Chaucer, 1896

Printed at the Kelmscott Press, 1896

Aesthetic Indigestion

This was considered by many as the greatest example of English typography and the most beautiful book of the nineteenth century. Others thought the book was overdressed and ‘aesthetic indigestion’.

William Morris founded the Kelmscott Press in 1890. Morris was a member of the Arts & Crafts Movement and well known as a designer of fabrics and wallpapers. The aim of the press was to produce not just books but works of art.

The volume contains eighty-seven woodcut illustrations designed by Sir Edward Burne- Jones and twenty-six large woodcut initials and numerous borders designed by William Morris. Four hundred and twenty-five standard copies were sold to subscribers for £20. Thirteen copies were produced on vellum and priced at £120.

The Kelmscott Chaucer was purchased by the Mitchell Library probably because David Scott Mitchell, himself, had a fine collection of English poetry.
Display item The works of Geoffrey Chaucer, 1896

 

< Previous Exhibit | Back to The Exhibits page | Next Exhibit >