Books

One of 200 copies on paper; small 4to (240 x 170 mm); printed in red & black, near-fine; original limp vellum by the Doves Bindery (stamp to rear endpaper), spine titled in gilt, uncut, mild spotting to fore-edges, vellum toned and warped (as usual), otherwise a very good copy of this rare edition. After establishing the Doves Bindery in 1893, Thomas James Cobden-Sanderson partnered with Emery Walker to found the Doves Press in 1901. Alongside the Kelmscott, Ashendene and Vale presses it is considered one of the cornerstones of the Golden Age of Private Press, drawing heavily on the spirit of the Arts & Crafts Movement that flowered at the turn of the century. The two partners, along with Sydney Cockerell, created type based on Nicolas Jenson's Roman type (1470s), named the 'Doves Type.' Unfortunately, the relationship between the two partners deteriorated, resulting in said type being famously dumped in the Thames, where it languished until 2014, when it was rescued and subsequently digitalised. Tidcombe DP5 & DP7.

"Poems" by John Keats, published in 1817, marks the initial foray of the celebrated Romantic poet into the literary world. This collection encompasses a diverse array of poems that encapsulate Keats's exploration of themes such as nature, beauty, love, and the transient nature of life. Among the notable pieces in this collection are Keats's renowned odes, including "Ode to a Nightingale," where he delves into the contrast between the immortal beauty of art and the transient nature of human existence. In "Ode on a Grecian Urn," he muses on the eternal nature of art and its ability to capture moments frozen in time. The collection also features his sonnets, showcasing Keats's skill in capturing complex emotions and sentiments in a concise yet evocative form. Poems like "On First Looking into Chapman's Homer" express his awe and exhilaration upon discovering Homer's works through the translation by George Chapman. Keats's appreciation for the beauty of the natural world is evident throughout the collection. His vivid descriptions and sensuous imagery in poems such as "To Autumn" paint a captivating picture of seasonal beauty, showcasing his ability to intertwine the human experience with the splendor of nature. The themes of love and desire permeate several of Keats's works in this collection. Poems like "Bright Star" express his longing for enduring love and immortal fame, while "La Belle Dame sans Merci" explores the enchantment and peril of romantic entanglement. "Poems" serves as a testament to Keats's remarkable poetic talent, displaying his mastery of language, vivid imagery, and profound exploration of universal themes. Although this collection initially received mixed reviews and modest recognition during Keats's lifetime, it has since solidified his reputation as one of the most influential and revered poets in English literature. His rich and evocative verses continue to resonate with readers, captivating them with their emotional depth and timeless beauty.