Antique Pocket Edition-“The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam”-Edward FitzGerald Translation-Published by Barse & Hopkins

Offered here is an attractive antique pocket edition of The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, translated into English verse by Edward FitzGerald and published by Barse & Hopkins, New York. This compact edition features the sought-after Fourth Version translation and retains its original dark flexible embossed cover with decorative title panel.

One of the most famous works of poetry ever published, The Rubáiyát contains the philosophical and lyrical verses of Persian mathematician, astronomer, and poet Omar Khayyám. FitzGerald’s translation became enormously popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and remained a favorite personal reading book for travelers, students, soldiers, and poetry enthusiasts.

This example presents well with strong, readable pages, original binding, and pleasing age-related wear. The pocket-sized format made it easy to carry in a coat pocket, travel bag, or military kit.

Condition

• Original pocket-sized edition
• Flexible embossed cover
• Binding intact
• Pages complete and readable
• Moderate cover wear from age and handling
• Corner and edge wear present
• Light age toning throughout
• Good collectible condition

Historical Interest

While not an official military publication, books like this were commonly carried as personal reading material during the late Victorian era, World War I, and World War II. Its small size made it ideal for soldiers, sailors, and travelers looking for portable reading material.

Possible Military Use

Based on the Barse & Hopkins imprint and binding style, this edition was most likely produced between 1915 and the early 1930s. Because of that:

• It could have been carried by a soldier during World War I (1917–1918 U.S. service).
• It could also have remained in use and been carried by a soldier during World War II (1941–1945) as a personal book.
• It was not military issue, but many servicemen carried poetry books, Bibles, novels, and personal reading material in their packs.