Květy (1913) Bound 35th Year - Czech literary magazine | Illustrated & Ex Libris

An antique Czech literary magazine from 1913, published in Prague and richly illustrated with works by, among others, the renowned Czech artist Mikoláš Aleš (1852–1913).

This bound copy of Květy, which means 'Flowers', contains the first half-year of the 35th volume. The magazine contains an extensive collection of Czech literature, poetry, stories, translations and artistic contributions from the years preceding the First World War.

The numerous illustrations are particularly noteworthy, including historical and folkloric depictions by Mikoláš Aleš. His images of Saint Wenceslaus, traditional South Bohemian costumes and the death of Prince Svatopluk give the book a clear connection to Czech history and culture.

The reddish-brown binding has a gold-decorated spine and black boards. Inside are decorative green-and-gold endpapers, marbled edges and a graphically designed ex libris by Ing. Josef Plička.

A characteristic copy from the Prague literary world of the early twentieth century, interesting for lovers of antiquarian books, Czech history, literature and historical illustration.

Details and specifications

• Title: Květy
• Volume: XXXV (35), first half-year
• Book part: LXX (70)
• Year of publication: 1913
• Publisher and editor: Vladimír S. Čech
• Place of publication: Prague, Austria-Hungary (now Czech Republic)
• Printer: Alois Šašek, Velké Meziříčí
• Language: Czech
• Dimensions: approximately 23.5 × 17 × 4 cm
• Binding: bound half-year volume with gold-decorated spine
• Illustrations: various black-and-white reproductions and drawings, including works by Mikoláš Aleš
• Features: decorative endpapers, marbled edges and ex libris by Ing. Josef Plička
• Condition: fair to good antiquarian condition. The binding shows wear, slight fading of the spine and locally detached covering. Some distortion is visible at the bottom, possibly due to old moisture damage. The paper is age-discolored and shows minor local damage. The text block and binding appear sturdy. See photos for the exact condition.