1855, Sakoontala translated by Monier Williams, bound by Stephen Austin

This remarkable book otherwise known as "the Lost Ring", was translated from the Sanskkrit of Kalidsa. Stephen Austin not only printed and published the book but he created the binding of green morrocco leather and elaborate gilt illustrations and lettering to both covers and the spine. In addition all the text block edges are gilt with beautiful gauffering. He identifies himself as the binder with his name at the bottom of the front paste-down.

 This 1855 volume is seen as a very special binding and book of the nineteenth century. The wood-engraving techniques were over letterpress to create intricate, four-to-five-color borders and decorations that were completely similar to the best chromolithography. The book won gold medals at the 1856 Paris Exposition Universelle.

The book is in superb condition. There is some slight wear to the covers only. The gilt is bright on the covers, a little less so on the spine. The gauffered text block edges are bright and detailed. The pink ribbon marker is still present. An early blank page has a gift dedication inscribed on it. There is some light scattered foxing a little more obvious on the preliminaries. The illustrations are vivid and clean. The binding is tight.