4 volumes. 113 pages. Original black morocco binding with rich gold embossing in Art Deco ornamentation with leaf and diamond patterns in blue and green, gilt on the top and inside edges, decorative endpapers, and gilt edges. In a floral-patterned original cardboard slipcase. Arguably the most beautiful edition of Franz Werfel's "The Friend of the World," created during the heyday of Art Deco. A magnificent, unsigned master binding, most likely a masterpiece by Annie Peters, created around 1926. The artistic influence of Franz Weiße is unmistakable; his exhibition of books inspired her to learn her craft under Franz Weiße and Behnke at what was then the Hamburg School of Arts and Crafts. Franz Werfel debuts with the volume of poetry "The Friend of the World." The desire to empathize with all beings characterizes these poems and gives them their special pathos. The poet expresses his sympathy for everyone—the acrobat, the governess, the Negro, the stoker—putting himself in their shoes and embracing them as brothers. A unique specimen in mint condition.