GILGAMESH (Golden Cockerel Press)

63 pages and the colophon page, engraved title page vignette and 12 engraved plates, bound in quarter cream buckram and mauve patterned cloth sides - corners slightly worn, top edge gilt other edges uncut edges with light foxing,  a very good copy.

Colophon reads: GILGAMESH has been designed, produced, and published by Christopher Sandford at the Golden Cockerel Press, 1-5 Poland Street, London W.1. Composition and presswork under the supervision of James Shand at the Shenval Press, Hertford. Compositors:H.R. Sheldrake and R.J. Cracknell. Pressman: E.F. Brooks. The edition has been limited to 500 numbered copies, of which Nos. 1-60 have been specially bound.

(https://grlucas.net/grl/The_Epic_of_Gilgamesh) ‘The Epic of Gilgamesh, widely regarded as the earliest surviving work of literature, offers a glimpse into the culture, values, and spiritual beliefs of ancient Mesopotamia. Composed in the Akkadian language and inscribed on clay tablets in cuneiform script, the epic dates back to the third millennium BCE, though it likely originated from even earlier oral traditions. The story takes place in the city-state of Uruk, a prominent centre of ancient civilization, and follows the titular hero, King Gilgamesh, on a transformative journey of heroism, friendship, and self-discovery.’

 Copy No. 124