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First edition thus, number 84 of 752 sets only, and one of just 80 in this publisher's deluxe binding. The edition prints for the first time since 1922 the text of the legendarily unprocurable Oxford Times edition, of which just eight copies were printed. It is accompanied by a portfolio of 41 plate proofs, each numbered 84 of 250 copies only, with the publisher's notice on proper handling loosely inserted. Spearheaded by Lawrence's biographer, Jeremy Wilson, the edition represents a magnificent marriage of luxurious book design and painstaking scholarly rigour which uncovers a Lawrence still grappling with containing the mammoth, rough-and-unready first version of his masterpiece. The Oxford Times text is printed in vols I-II. The third volume contains the illustrations; it also prints, in parallel text, Lawrence's 1924 draft and the 1926 published version of the first eight chapters. Lawrence received advice on amending these opening sections from, among others, Bernard Shaw, who convinced Lawrence to entirely remove his planned first chapter, printed here. The editorial influence of Lawrence's literary advisors on the magnificent "Cranwell" edition of 1926 had been largely overlooked, principally because there was no means to readily compare the definitive text against earlier versions until the release of this handsome scholarly edition. "The longer and fuller 1922 version is unquestionably the more important for historians, and also for any reader whose First edition thus, number 84 of 752 sets only, and one of just 80 in this publisher's deluxe binding. The edition prints for the first time since 1922 the text of the legendarily unprocurable Oxford Times edition, of which just eight copies were printed. It is accompanied by a portfolio of 41 plate proofs, each numbered 84 of 250 copies only, with the publisher's notice on proper handling loosely inserted. Spearheaded by Lawrence's biographer, Jeremy Wilson, the edition represents a magnificent marriage of luxurious book design and painstaking scholarly rigour which uncovers a Lawrence still grappling with containing the mammoth, rough-and-unready first version of his masterpiece. The Oxford Times text is printed in vols I-II. The third volume contains the illustrations; it also prints, in parallel text, Lawrence's 1924 draft and the 1926 published version of the first eight chapters. Lawrence received advice on amending these opening sections from, among others, Bernard Shaw, who convinced Lawrence to entirely remove his planned first chapter, printed here. The editorial influence of Lawrence's literary advisors on the magnificent "Cranwell" edition of 1926 had been largely overlooked, principally because there was no means to readily compare the definitive text against earlier versions until the release of this handsome scholarly edition. "The longer and fuller 1922 version is unquestionably the more important for historians, and also for any reader whose prime interest is in Lawrence himself" (Wilson, I, p. xii). The edition comprises 650 sets in quarter cloth, 80 in the present deluxe binding, 20 in an extra-limited deluxe binding, and 2 not for sale. READ MORE Four vols, large octavo. Publisher's deluxe bindings by the Fine Bindery: vols I-II bound in full blue crushed goatskin, spines lettered in gilt and ruled in blind, inner dentelles gilt, marbled endpapers, edges gilt; vol. III bound in unlettered quarter goatskin with white cloth sides and photographic endpapers; portfolio of 41 proof plates and 2 folding maps housed in a white cloth folder. All housed in original white cloth slipcase. Vol. III with 127 plates, including the Cranwell illustrations and supplemented with photographs from other sources. Portfolio interleaved with Japanese tissue guards. Spines darkened, otherwise fresh. A near-fine set in the slightly marked slipcase. O'Brien A034a.

"Seven Pillars of Wisdom" is an autobiographical account by T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, chronicling his experiences during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire in World War I. Lawrence, an English scholar and military officer, played a pivotal role in leading Arab forces in their revolt against Ottoman rule. The narrative begins with Lawrence's journey across the Arabian desert, delving into the complexities of Arab tribal politics, culture, and the landscape. It highlights his efforts to unite disparate Arab factions under a common cause — the fight for independence against Ottoman domination. Lawrence's narrative captures his personal involvement in the revolt, including his leadership in successful guerrilla campaigns, attacks on Ottoman supply lines, and strategic warfare alongside Arab leaders such as Emir Faisal and Sherif Ali. His tactics emphasized surprise attacks and mobility, making use of the desert terrain to outmaneuver the Ottoman forces. The title "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" references Lawrence's description of the varied aspects that formed his beliefs and guiding principles during this tumultuous time. These "pillars" represent themes such as courage, loyalty, diplomacy, military strategy, and the challenges faced in reconciling conflicting interests among the Arab tribes. The book delves into Lawrence's reflections on the moral dilemmas inherent in war, the challenges of leadership, and his own psychological struggles. It offers a vivid portrayal of the harsh desert landscape, the Arab culture, and the alliances and betrayals within the Arab tribes and among the European powers vying for control in the region. Lawrence's prose is rich with detailed descriptions, historical insights, and intimate observations of the people and places he encountered. "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" remains not just a historical document but also a literary masterpiece that provides a profound understanding of the Arab Revolt and the intricate socio-political dynamics of the Middle East during World War I.