Author: Andrew Lang (translator) Title: Aucassin and Nicolette
Publisher: David Nutt, London
Printer: C. Whittingham & Co., Chiswick Press Date: November 1887
Edition: First Lang edition; one of 550 copies on Japanese vellum (500 for sale)
 
Scarce first edition of Lang’s celebrated translation of the late 12th‑century anonymous French chantefable—a rare medieval form blending prose and verse. Often cited as one of Lang’s finest works; Ezra Pound famously remarked that “Lang was born in order that he might translate it perfectly.” Printed on Japanese vellum and issued in fragile pictorial paper wraps, which seldom survive in collectible condition.
 
Details: Small 12mo (approx. 6.5 x 4 in.). Original cream pictorial wrappers printed in black and red. Engraved frontispiece by Hood; two vignette headpieces; one tailpiece. A clean, near‑fine example with only light edgewear, mild toning to extremities, slight wear to upper spine tip, and a small scrape to the rear wrapper. Interior clean and bright.
 
Condition: Near fine in original wraps. Light edgewear; mild toning; tiny scrape to rear cover; small rub at spine tip. No repairs, no major faults—exceptionally well‑preserved for this edition.
 
A genuinely uncommon survival of Lang’s most admired translation, especially in this condition. Ideal for collectors of medieval literature, private‑press printing, or Andrew Lang’s works.