Syr Perceyvelle of Gales
William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones were two 19th-century British artists and central figures in the movement toward the return of medieval and early Renaissance artistic ideas known as the Humanism period within the 19th century. These two men studied together in 1852 at the University of Oxford. They bonded over poetry when they met at University, sparking their lifelong collaboration. This collaboration resulted in beautiful books being crafted within the 19th century, influencing future generations. Among the many books these two men produced together, illustrated by Edward Burne-Jones and designed and printed at Morris’s Kelmscott Press, is Syr Perecyvelle of Gales, an Arthurian romance.
The book begins with a scene of young Percival bidding farewell to his mother before leaving their forest home to seek his fortune as a knight. Edward Burne-Jones's stunning illustration captures the moment's tenderness, with Percival embraced by his mother as he begins his journey. The image marks the end of his isolated upbringing and the beginning of his adventure.
As Percival ventures to King Arthur's court to become a knight, readers are taken on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and transformation. The book details his encounters with knights, battles, and magical creatures, each experience shaping his character and leading him closer to becoming a true knight.
Beyond the captivating story, the book holds significant historical significance. Printing was becoming increasingly industrialized at the time of publication, losing the artistic essence of bookmaking. The Kelmscott press where sought to replicate the hand-press style of 15th-century printing during the Gothic revival movement at the time. Within the Kelmscott Press the work of the contemporary fine press was started, making it a movement in this time of bookmaking.This craft was designed to focus on the artistic feel of bookmaking and often used hand press. William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones, two passionate artists, aimed to preserve the art of bookmaking by producing a book showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of the art form. When William Morris launched the Kelmscott Press, he set out to bring back the processes of the early hand-press period when the paper was made of high-quality cloth and there were ornate woodcuts. The book features intricate and ornate designs, with each page carefully crafted as a work of art. The Kelmscott Press edition of Syr Perecyvelle of Gales is a testament to their dedication and love for the craft of bookmaking, and it remains a timeless masterpiece appreciated by book lovers and art enthusiasts alike.