Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám 1898 – Antiquarian Hardback, Vellum Binding, 5th Ed.
 
Overview
 
This is a refined 1898 reprint (fifth edition) of Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, translated into English verse by Edward FitzGerald. Bound in pale vellum over boards, featuring gilt decoration and clean typographic presentation, it is a beautiful representation of Victorian poetic appreciation and craftsmanship.
 
Bibliographic Details
 
Title: Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám
Translator: Edward FitzGerald (English version)
Edition: Fifth Edition Reprint (1898)
Publisher: Macmillan & Co., Limited, London
Printer: R. & R. Clark, Limited, Edinburgh
Language: English
Binding: Vellum over boards with gilt trim and spine lettering
Physical Specs
Pages: 112
Size: ~21 cm × 14.5 cm × 1.7 cm
Weight: ~300 g
Paper Cut: Roughly cut edges (character of craft binding)
 
Exterior Condition
 
Vellum boards and spine are intact and robust, retaining gilt border and lettering
Signs of age: light surface marks and some discolouration consistent with vellum over time
Described condition: Good for volume which is nearly 130 years old.
 
Interior Condition
 
Light foxing and tanning present on pastedowns and endpapers; crisp and bright pages throughout
A pen inscription dated May 1898 on the front free endpaper, possibly original owner’s note
Minor binding imperfection: very light, partial crack in gutter between pp. 32–33; otherwise, the binding remains secure
All 112 pages complete, neat, uncreased; no rips; only the very occasional small or light mark – text is not obscured.
 
Significance & Appeal
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This edition belongs to a notable period when Rubáiyát was particularly popular in the West. The vellum binding elevates it above standard library editions, making it appealing to bibliophiles, to collectors of Persian poetry, and to those celebrating Victorian book design.