The Anatomy of Melancholy: What it is, With all the Kinds, Causes, Symptomes, Prognostickes, and Several Cures of it. In Three Partitions: Philosophically, Medicinally, Historically, Opened and Cut Up

London: The Nonesuch Press, 1925. Vellum. Very Good Indeed. 12.5" by 8". E. McKnight Kauffer. A smart set of this reprint of Burton's scholastic work on the subject of melancholia, with illustrations throughout. Complete in two volumes. Originally published in 1621. Limited edition of seven hundred and fifty copies, of which this is number six hundred and nineteen. Illustrated throughout. On the surface 'The Anatomy of Melancholy' is presented as a medical text, which conveys Burton's expansive knowledge on melancholia. However, it is regarded as being as much a sui generis work of literature as it is a scientific or philosophical text, with Burton using melancholy as a lens to analyse human emotion and thought. A truly unique study applauded for its comprehensive nature, this work had admirers throughout time including Samuel Johnson, Charles Lamb, John Keats, and Samuel Beckett. Written by Robert Burton, under the pseudonym of Democritus Junior, an English author and fellow of Oxford University. Illustrated by Edward McKnight Kauffer, an American artist and graphic designer. In the original quarter vellum with pictorial paper covered boards. Externally, smart with light shelf wear and minor rubbing to the extremities. Minor fading to the extremities, with light discolouration to the spine as is typical with ageing. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are very bright and clean throughout. Much of the textblock remains unopened to volume two. Previous owner's bookplate to the front pastedown. Very Good Indeed