Kelmscott Press, 1892

VORAIGNE, Jacobus de (1230-1298). The Golden Legend. Translated by William Caxton. Hammersmith: Kelmscott Press, 1892.
 
Kelmscott edition of Caxton's translation of the Legenda aurea, for which Morris's Golden Type was named. This Medieval collection of saints' lives held a special appeal for Morris; he intended it to be the first work by the Kelmscott Press, but it's length and complication meant a few smaller works were issued beforehand. It is modeled on Wyncken de Worde's 1527 edition and was funded by Quaritch, because, according to a letter he wrote to Ellis, "first I think every man of culture should be acquainted with the alleged lives of the Saints, and second I am aware of the philological value of all things Caxton." One of 500 copies. Peterson A7.
 
Three volumes, quarto (289 x 195mm). Printed in Golden type. Half titles, full-page woodcut title in vol 1 and 2 full-page woodcut illustrations after Edward Burne-Jones, woodcut borders, initials and decorations (some leaves faintly spotted, leaf qq3 in vol 2. with closed tear affecting printed area). Contemporary holland-backed blue paper boards with paper labels, many gatherings in vols 2 and 3 unopened (boards quite faded, a little soiled around the edges).