The Golden Ass of Lucius Apuleius in the translation by William Adlington, F.J. Harvey Darton (ed) and illustrated by Philip Hagreen, Navarre Society. Bayntun-Riviere binding.

The Golden Ass (also known as Metamorphoses) by Lucius Apuleius is the only complete surviving novel from ancient Rome. This picaresque tale chronicles the misadventures of Lucius, a young man whose fascination with magic leads to his accidental transformation into a donkey. The narrative unfolds as Lucius, in his asinine form, experiences a series of humorous and poignant episodes, including encounters with thieves, priests, and a captivating story of Cupid and Psyche. Ultimately, Lucius seeks redemption and transformation through the intervention of the goddess Isis, culminating in his restoration to human form and initiation into the mysteries of Isis.

The Golden Ass of Lucius Apuleius in the translation by William Adlington. Edited, with an Introduction by F.J. Harvey Darton with illustrations by Philip Hagreen.

Privately printed for the Navarre Society Limited, London. Undated, but c. 1924. Printed by the Riverside Press, Edinburgh.

A near fine hardback, custom-bound in later red leather and marbled boards. With leather to spine and corners with some light scuffing and wear, and spine sunned to brown. With gilt tooled decoration and titles to the spine, which has attractive raised bands. With marbled endpapers, with previous owner's signature to first pastedown. All soundly bound by Bayntun (Riviere), Bath, England.

Text is in fine condition throughout; clear and bright with attractive illustrations. Light age-toning.

A handsome volume, in a prestigious binding.

Text in English.

359pp + (1).

Dimensions: Approximately 215mm x 143mm x 20mm.

Weight: Approximately 410g (unpacked).