Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam Value Guide

This 1937 United Kingdom edition represents the enduring Western fascination with Edward Fitzgerald's translation of Omar Khayyam's 11th-century Persian quatrains. As a mid-century collectible, it showcases the intricate design aesthetics and cloth bindings typical of the era's popular philosophical literature.

What affects the value of Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam?

• The physical condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for fading, fraying, or water damage.
• The presence and condition of the original dust jacket, which significantly increases the $25-$35 market value.
• The quality and preservation of any internal illustrations or decorative borders included in this 1937 printing.
• The cleanliness of the paper, as foxing or ink inscriptions can lower the desirability for collectors.

How to Identify Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam?

• Verify the publication date of 1937 and the United Kingdom origin on the title page or verso.
• Check for the specific Edward Fitzgerald translation, which is the most common and sought-after English version.
• Examine the cloth binding for period-specific intricate designs or gilt lettering common to 1930s editions.
• Confirm the presence of the classic quatrain structure (four-line stanzas) throughout the paper pages.

History of Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Omar Khayyam was a Persian polymath who lived in the 11th and 12th centuries. His Rubaiyat, a series of quatrains, gained significant popularity in the Western world through Edward Fitzgerald's English translation, first published in 1859. This particular edition from 1937, often features intricate designs, reflecting the enduring appeal and cultural impact of Khayyam's philosophical poetry.