Among the many editions already existing of the Portuguese epic poem Os Lusíadas, many consider this one, published by Emílio Biel in Oporto to mark commemorations of the third centenary of the great poet’s death, as the most beautiful. This elegantly printed and decorated book stands out as a desirable object for collectors and bibliophiles alike. The text is accompanied by allegorical engravings, vignettes, and capital letters at the beginning of each Canto. To Camões' voice is added an introduction by Gomes Monteiro, notes by Barreto Feio and a closing essay by J. de S. Mendes Leal. The frontispiece bears an engraving of Camões, drawn by Burger and engraved by Pickel and Neumann in conjunction with an open steel plate photogravure of the Emperor of Brazil Pedro II. The binding of the work shows the grandeur devoted to this undertaking and is profusely dry and gold engraved. Os Lusíadas, the masterpiece by the poet Luís Vaz de Camões, who therein told of the Portuguese and their maritime exploits, is still regarded today as Portugal's greatest epic poem. Taking inspiration from the classical epic poems, of which Virgil's Aeneid and Homer's Iliad are the leading examples, this celebrates the History of Portugal and the Portuguese Discoveries of the 16th century, describing their perils, challenges, and glories. Os Lusíadas by Luiz de Camões in a unique edition.