Fine example of one of the most luxurious works to be published in celebration of the 300th anniversary of the House of Romanov. Some of the best artists of the time such as Vasnetsov and Roerich worked on the production of this sumptuous book under the direction of Prince Putiatin. The anthology is lavishly decorated in gilt by Zvorykin and large portrait of the reigning Tsar Nicholas II is presented in an impressive window mount. Contemporaries considered the 'Izbornik' to be a real typographic masterpiece and it remains a scarce reminder of the opulence of the tercentenary celebrations.

The word 'Izbornik' (anthology) in ancient Russia was used to describe a collection of manuscript articles and fragments from various works. Most likely this publication received its name because of the variety of materials included. As stated in the foreword, under the theme of the anniversary of Romanov's dynasty in this publication the editor has united 'Ancient records and original works – literature and fiction.' The publisher Levenson planned to produce twelve issues in total, three each year, but only two came out. All profits from the publication were intended for charitable educational purposes. The first issue of the 'Izbornik', offered here, contains six articles related to the history of the Romanovs dynasty and illustrations of regalia.

Large folio (445 x 325 mm); illustrated title by S. I. Vashkov, frontispiece portraits with elaborate borders designed by Yaguzhinsky, colour plates including two after Khokhriakov and Vasnetsov, further illustrations in the text; elaborate headpieces and lettrines designed by Zvorykin, small bookseller's stamp to lower pastedown; original decorative gilt paper boards, corners slightly bumped, minor stain to lower cover, rebacked in red morocco, a very good copy.

Fekula 2820.