Sakoontala, Or The Lost Ring: An Indian Drama

First Edition (thus) of the most notable Indian epic.

A masterpiece of Victorian book design, Quarto, publisher’s original bright green Moroccan calf leather, heavily decorated in gilt with a central pictorial roundel within a floral design, title also gilt decorated, title in gilt on spine, all edges gilt, gilt inner dentelles, elaborate endpapers; title enclosed within red-ruled border; color printed head and tail-pieces, borders, and an added color-printed title, plus 16 color-printed plates. Slight tear of cloth at back cover (see photo provided).

This wonderful book won gold medals at the 1856 Paris Exposition Universelle.

The story describes a very romantic encounter between Sakoontala, the daughter of a sage and the King Dushyanta, forgotten vows, a lost ring and a beautiful reunion. Sakoontala’s son Bharata is who India is named after-the Sanskrit name of India is Bharatavarsha. An excellent example of beautifully illustrated book in original covers.

Title: Sakoontala, Or The Lost Ring: An Indian Drama

Publisher: Stephen Austin, Hertford

Publication Date: 1855

Binding: Original cloth, Hardcover

Condition: Very Good

Edition: First Edition thus