Edmund Spenser — The Shepheard&Apos;S Calender

London, Harper, 1898. Cloth. A delightful edition of the Elizabethan poet's first major work, illustrated throughout by Walter Crane. A decorative edition of Edmund Spencer's first major work, originally published in 1579. There is one full page illustration for each month, illustrations surrounding the text of each page, and a pictorial cloth binding. Collated, complete.Better known for his epic poem 'The Faerie Queene', here Spenser presents a series of bucolic pastorals depicting the life of a shepherd through the twelve months of the year. Curiously, the term 'sarcasm' here has its first recorded use in English.All illustrations are the work of celebrated artist Walter Crane, a notable figure of the Arts and Crafts movement, and producer of paintings, illustrations, children's books, ceramic tiles and wallpapers. A pioneer in art education for the young, he is also remembered for his creation of various iconic images associated with the Socialist movement of the day.Crane is considered to be the most influential, and amongst the most prolific, children's book illustrator of his day, and also contributed illustrations to an edition of Spenser's 'Faerie Queene&apos.A plate to the front pastedown states the name 'M. Mr. William&apos. In the publisher's original cloth binding. Some rubbing and discolouration to front board and spine. Slight shelf wear to spine head and tail, and extremities. Hinges strained. Name plate to front pastedown. Internally, generally firmly bound. Pages bright and clean. Very Good . Ill.: Walter Crane. Very Good .