Boris Godounov.

Finely bound illustrated edition of Pushkin's Boris Godunov . Written by Pushkin in 1825 and published in 1831, it was not approved by the censor for performance until 1866. A historical drama written in blank verse and based on the reign of Tsar Boris Godunov from 1598 to 1605, it's not only one of Pushkin's most popular works but it is praised as one of the most important plays of the early 19th century.

A graduate of the Moscow Academy Zworykine's art was immediately met with success and he began work illustrating books, painting religious frescoes and decorating menus and programmes for the Imperial family. His warm colours and intricate patterns in his characters, interiors and architecture celebrate the richness of Russian cultural heritage and perfectly complement the sentiment of Pushkin's work.

Limited edition, one of 775 copies on velin rives; 4to, translated by A. Baranoff ; with 26 lithographic illustrations after Zworykine, of which 15 are full-page; original printed wrappers bound in later half red morocco, spine in five parts with gilt detail and floral inlays, top edge gilt a fine copy.