Procreant Hymn

[Waltham Saint Lawrence]: The Golden Cockerel Press, 1926. Limited Edition. Hardcover. Fine. Gill, Eric. One of 175 copies, octavo size, 24 pp. One of Gill's most overtly sexual works, with the male figure shown in full glory for the frontispiece, the male and female figures throughout either fully nude or diaphonously draped.

While these published illustrations were bold, Gill also drew alternative versions which were even more explicit; so much so that they could not be openly published. An advertisement loosely laid into the volume advises subscribers that they "may be interested to know that three alternative designs have been engraved for this book and may be obtained separately from the artist" (although, in actuality, four alternative plates were made).

The text reminiscent of "The Song of Solomon" in the Bible, which frankly glories in the wonder of the human body and the joys of sexual union.

___DESCRIPTION: Bound in full cream cloth over boards stamped with gilt lettering on the spine, top edge gilt, frontispiece "God Sending" (P359), four other copper engravings throughout ("Earth Waiting", P360; "Earth Inviting", P361; "Dalliance", P362; and "Earth Receiving", P363); Caslon O.F. Italic type on Batchelor hand-made paper, octavo size (9 3/4" by 6.5"), pagination: [2] [1-4] 5-20, [1, blank], [1, colophon], this no. 96 of 175 copies (plus 25 hors de commerce).

___CONDITION: Fine overall, with clean boards, straight corners without rubbing, a strong, square text block with solid hinges, the interior is clean and bright, and entirely free of prior owner markings; gentle bumping to the head and tail of the spine and one small area on the back board where the cloth has lifted slightly from the board, else fine.

___CITATION: Chanticleer no. 37; Gill no. 277.

___POSTAGE: International customers, please note that additional postage may apply as the standard does not always cover costs; please inquire for details.

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