Description: Royal octavo (approx. 290 x 230mm); 276pp. Beautifully bound in the publisher's original brilliant blue cloth, featuring an intricate, clean white, red, and gold gilt design to the front board and bright gilt lettering to the spine. Fully illustrated with numerous crisp colour and monochrome plates throughout. Condition Report:

• Book: In pristine, crisp, and unread condition. The cloth binding is exceptionally clean, sharp-cornered, and vibrant. Text block is bright and clean; hinges are tight, intact, and perfectly straight. Free of signatures, bookplates, or markings.

• Slipcase: Housed in the original matching blue slipcase. Near fine with only the slightest hints of faint shelfwear/rubbing to the bottom edge from storage. Structurally sound, clean, and completely free of splits, bumps, or fading. A superb, collectible presentation copy.

Synopsis: First published in 1969 to accompany the groundbreaking BBC television series, Kenneth Clark's Civilisation remains a monumental survey of Western cultural history. This beautifully crafted edition traces the ideas, philosophy, books, and buildings that defined European culture from the collapse of the Roman Empire through the Renaissance and into the modern era. With Clark's signature clarity and conversational eloquence, the text guides readers through the artistic masterpieces and historical turning points that saved civilization "by the skin of our teeth." This oversized volume features luxurious blue cloth boards, brilliant gilt decorations, and rich colour plates, celebrating the peak of human creative energy. It stands as an essential centerpiece for collectors of art history, philosophy, and finely bound literature.

Note: This volume is exceptionally heavy. Additional postage will be requested after purchase.