Aeneid

This is a true work of art — a seamless fusion of word and image, telling the captivating story of the birth of modern Ukrainian literature.

The Aeneid by Ivan Kotliarevskyi, the first major literary work written in living Ukrainian vernacular, marked the dawn of a new era and preserved the spirit of the Ukrainian people in the vibrant lines of a national epic. Witty, colorful, and bold, the tale of the Cossack Aeneas searching for a new homeland after the fall of Troy remains relevant and deeply rooted in national identity, even two centuries later.

This edition is distinguished by its exceptional visual and material design. The book features 42 full-page, 39 half-page illustrations, and 20 ornamental elements, all masterfully created by celebrated artist Oksana Ternavska. Each illustration is a scene in itself; each page — a stage set for the epic journey of Aeneas and his Cossack warriors.

Handcrafted binding in Italian leather with deep embossing and gold foil, polished edges, and high-grade Munken paper from Sweden come together to offer both visual and tactile pleasure. Commentary by A. F. Stavitskyi provides deeper insight into the poem’s language, subtle irony, and cultural context.

The Aeneid is a book you’ll want to return to — to reread favorite lines, to admire the artistry, and to once again feel the richness and vitality of Ukrainian culture.