ELEUSIS: HER MYSTERIES, RUINS AND MUSEUM. TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH OF DEMETRIOS PHILIOS, DIRECTOR OF EXCAVATIONS (1882-1894)
Book Details + Condition: Sidney Appleton (London). First Edition, 1906. Hardcover with embossed decorated beige boards, measuring 7.5" x 5.25". 79 pages. Illustrated with plates and colored map / plan. The work is a classic archaeological and historical study written by Demetrios Philios, and provides a foundational overview of the ancient sanctuary of Eleusis, detailing its mythological origins, the progression of archaeological excavations, and the significance of its artifacts. At the heart of the text is the myth of Demeter and Persephone. The sanctuary at Eleusis was home to the ancient world's most famous secret religious rite, the Eleusinian Mysteries. The book further details the archaeological efforts by the Greek Archaeological Society, which began in the late 19th century. Philios, as director of these excavations, documents how the sprawling ruins were unearthed, detailing the step-by-step discovery of the ancient religious center. Finally, the text provides a close look at the major structures of the site, including the Telesterion, the Plutonion (a sacred cave believed to be the entrance to the Underworld), and the Kallichoron Well.
Firm binding; minor aging and shelf wear to boards; foxing present throughout book, but heavier in first and last pages; interior is otherwise clean and free of markings. All books are carefully packed, and shipped in boxes.
