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Homer Odyssey German Illustrated Edition Classical Greek Literature Fine Binding

Name: Homer Odyssey German Illustrated Edition Classical Greek Literature Fine Binding
Brand: My Store
Price: 300.00 EUR
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€300,00 EUR

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HOMER

Odyssee

Translated by Johann Heinrich Voss. Illustrated by Alois Kolb.

Frankfurt am Main: Frankfurter Verlags-Anstalt A.G., 1920.

A beautifully produced German edition of Homer's Odyssey, combining one of the greatest works of classical literature with the distinctive artistic vision of the celebrated German graphic artist Alois Kolb. Published in 1920, in the years immediately following the First World War, this impressive large-format edition reflects the renewed interest in fine book production and artistic craftsmanship that characterised early twentieth-century German publishing.

The text follows the celebrated translation of Johann Heinrich Voss, whose rendering of Homer remains one of the most influential and enduring German translations of the ancient epic. Richly illustrated throughout with 24 original lithographic plates by Alois Kolb (1875–1942), the volume reimagines the adventures of Odysseus through dramatic Expressionist compositions distinguished by bold contrasts, sculptural figures, and atmospheric landscapes.

The publisher's artistic vellum-backed binding, decorated pictorial boards, gilt lettering, and top-edge gilt further enhance the book's appeal as both a literary masterpiece and an outstanding example of twentieth-century book design.

Historical Significance

For nearly three millennia, The Odyssey has remained one of the defining works of Western literature, shaping storytelling, philosophy, art, and cultural imagination across successive civilizations. Homer's epic of exile, perseverance, identity, and homecoming continues to inspire readers and scholars throughout the world.

This 1920 edition is particularly notable for bringing together three important cultural achievements: Homer's timeless epic, Johann Heinrich Voss's landmark German translation, and Alois Kolb's remarkable Expressionist illustrations. Produced during a period of artistic renewal in Germany, it represents an outstanding example of the private-press aesthetic and the close relationship between literature, typography, and illustration in early twentieth-century European publishing.

Today, the volume is sought after by collectors of classical literature, illustrated books, fine press editions, German art, and the history of book illustration.

Condition

A very good copy in the publisher's original vellum-backed binding with decorative pictorial boards designed by the artist. Spine lettered ODYSSEE in gilt within a red morocco-style label and decorated with gilt compartments. Top edge gilt. The binding remains attractive and well preserved, while the text is illustrated throughout with 24 original lithographic plates by Alois Kolb in excellent impression. A particularly handsome and highly collectible example of this beautifully illustrated edition.