Gill, Eric

folio, number 308 of 500 copies, 65 wood-engraved sub-titles, pictorial headlines and initials by Eric Gill, original half white pigskin, top edge gilt, collector's folding case, some occasional offsetting, spine slightly discoloured and rubbed at extremities

Chanticleer 78; Cave and Manson pp.55-59.

Condition is described in the body of cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The Four Gospels is generally perceived as the masterpiece of the Golden Cockerel Press. Initially announced in the Spring of 1928, it was a further two years before work started due to the dissatisfaction of Gill and Gibbings with the use of 18-pt Caslon Old Face type. They were determined to use a new, more modern typeface to complement the wood-engravings. The printing of the book was a complex process, especially as Gill designed the opening word and design for each chapter after the compositors had set the type. Gill, however, completed all the wood-engravings within ten months. The Four Gospels received unanimous praise and has never lost its critical acclaim; "few collaborations of artist and typographer have been more successful than that of Gill and Gibbings in this magnificent quarto."