1902 Rare Book - Asgard and the Gods, Norse Mythology Illustrated

Author: Dr. W. Wagner. Adapted by M. W. Macdowall. Edited by W. S. W. Anson.
Title: Asgard and the Gods: The Tales and Traditions of Our Northern Ancestors. Forming a Complete Manual of Norse Mythology.
Publisher: London, Swan Sonnenschein & Co., Lim., Paternoster Square, 1902. Seventh Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 8.5 x 6 inches.
Pages: xvi-326 pages.
Binding: Attractive and very good original publisher’s striking red pictorial cloth binding, illustrated in gilt, black, and green to the spine and front cover, showing mythological figures and motifs (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. Upper edge gilt.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing or staining - as shown,  previous ownership inscription in pencil on the front free endpaper and the upper right corner of this endpaper is neatly cut - as shown).
Illustrations: Profusely illustrated throughout with full-page and in-text engravings depicting Norse gods, heroes, mythological creatures, and legendary scenes, including frontispiece "Wodan’s Wild Hunt."

Estimate: (USD 250-300)

The book: A beautifully illustrated Edwardian edition of Asgard and the Gods, one of the most engaging English-language adaptations of Norse mythology for general readers. Drawing from Dr. Wagner’s work, M. W. Macdowall and W. S. W. Anson present a sweeping account of the myths, sagas, and legends of the North — from the creation of the world and the deeds of Odin, Thor, and Loki, to the tragic death of Baldr and the cataclysmic events of Ragnarök. The vivid engravings and decorative chapter ornaments capture the drama and majesty of the myths, making this an enduring favorite for collectors of mythology, folklore, and illustrated literature.

The author: Dr. W. Wagner was a noted German author and educator, whose works on mythology, medieval romance, and literature were widely translated in the late 19th century. His Asgard and the Gods has remained one of the most popular retellings of Norse myth for over a century.