A rare and beautifully illustrated limited edition, The Death of the Lion by Ashley Gibson is an artistic and poetic exploration of the legendary origins of the Sinhalese people of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). This first edition, published in 1935 by the Java Head Bookshop, is number 130 of only 275 copies produced, each signed by both Ashley Gibson and the renowned Sri Lankan artist Justin Pieris Deraniyagala.
 
Inspired by the Mahavamsa, or Ceylon’s Great Chronicle, Gibson’s work poetically retells the myth of Prince Vijaya, whose descent from a union between an Indian princess and a lion gave rise to the Sinhalese race. The tale is rich with ancient lore, featuring giants, monsters, and exiled warriors, set against the backdrop of Lanka’s early history.
 
The book’s twenty-five evocative illustrations by Justin Pieris Deraniyagala, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated artists, enhance its mystique. Known for his iconic painting “The Blue Nude”, Pieris studied in France and contributed to the British Museum, bringing a distinctive artistic vision to this edition.
 
An exceptional collector’s item, The Death of the Lion is a captivating blend of myth, history, and visual artistry, offering a glimpse into the cultural and artistic heritage of early 20th-century Ceylon.