A fine copy of the most important work from the Kelmscott Press, and arguably the greatest of all Private Press books is offered for auction on 15th May 2008 by Bloomsbury Auctions

Chaucer (Geoffrey) The Works, one of 425 copies on paper, edited by F.S.Ellis, printed in red and black in Chaucer and Troy types, woodcut title, borders and initials by C.E.Keates, W.H.Hooper and W.Spielmeyer after William Morris, 87 woodcut illustrations by W.H.Hooper after Sir Edward Burne-Jones, later blue crushed morocco by Sangorski & Sutcliffe, gilt roll-tool on covers, border and spine compartments within raised bands with gilt rules and fleurons, g.e., spine slightly sunned, preserved in matching morocco-tipped blue cloth slip-case, [Franklin, The Private Press p.192; Sparling 40; Tomkinson p.117 no.40; PMM 367 note], folio [ff. 420 x 280 mm], Kelmscott Press, 1896.

Morris began discussing the project in 1891 and finally in June 1896 issued the book to subscribers a few weeks before his death.... read more on William Morris.

Also, in the same sale is the stunning Nuremberg Chronicle  (Liber Chronicarum ) printed by Anton Koberger, depicting a history of the world from Creation to contemporary times and including a number of blank leaves onto which the books owner can continue the history.

A work remarkable for its illustrations, its design, woodcuts and descriptions of cities.

The woodcut illustrations include events from the Bible, pictures of human monstrosities, portraits of Kings, Queens, saints and martyrs, and allegorical pictures of miracles.

The auction estimate for Chaucer (Geofrey) The Works is £30000 – £40000 and for Liber Chronicarum is £90000 – £110000....... Auction Cataloque

The sale is also listed on eBay's Live Auctions .... eBay Cataloque