1931 The Romance of Leonardo Da Vinci by Dmitri Merejkowski – First Edition

Description

Romance of Leonardo da Vinci by Dmitri Merejkowski (First Edition, Second Printing)

Publisher: Random House, New York, 1931
Binding: Original full cloth binding
Pages: 574
Condition: Very Good

This first edition, second printing of Romance of Leonardo da Vinci by Dmitri Merejkowski is a richly detailed historical novel that captures the grandeur of the Middle Ages while exploring the complexities of Leonardo da Vinci’s life. A work of literary and philosophical depth, this novel is the second in Merejkowski’s acclaimed Christ and Antichrist trilogy.

Merejkowski, a prominent figure in the Silver Age of Russian Poetry and co-founder of the Symbolist movement, was known for his innovative approach to literature and his exploration of religious and philosophical themes. His portrayal of da Vinci is not just a biographical account but also a profound meditation on the nature of creativity, spirituality, and humanity. The novel is praised for its vivid, almost cinematic depictions of the Renaissance, coupled with a sly, crisp humor that adds layers of depth to the narrative. The text, originally written in Russian, has been translated by Bernard Guilbert Guerney, bringing Merejkowski’s poetic prose to an English-speaking audience.

This edition is beautifully illustrated with a colored frontispiece and black-and-white illustrations throughout the text, enhancing the reader’s experience of the story. The book remains in very good condition, with all pages bright, clean, and securely attached to the hinge. The text block is uncut, adding to the book’s collectible value. The only marking in the book is the previous owner’s name on the front free endpaper.

About the Author:
Dmitri Merejkowski was a Russian novelist, poet, and literary critic who made significant contributions to the Symbolist movement. Twice forced into political exile, he continued to publish successful novels throughout his life, gaining recognition as a critic of Soviet Russia and a religious thinker. Merejkowski was a nine-time nominee for the Nobel Prize in Literature and came close to winning in 1933. His works, including Romance of Leonardo da Vinci, reflect his fervent idealism, literary innovation, and deep philosophical inquiry.

This edition is a valuable addition to any collection of historical fiction or Russian literature. Its combination of historical accuracy, literary artistry, and philosophical insight makes it a truly remarkable work.

Notable Features:

• Coloured frontispiece and black-and-white illustrations

• Secure hinge and clean pages

• Previous owner’s name on front free endpaper

• Uncut text block

For collectors and enthusiasts of historical fiction and Russian literature, this edition offers a unique window into both the Renaissance period and the mind of one of Russia’s most intriguing literary figures.

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~ Price posted is in (CAD) Canadian Dollars ~