Read the given passage and answer the four questions that follow:

I was completely charmed by Madhava Rao's antiquarian bookshop in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru. The stock was not chock-a- block with rarities, first or expensive editions. Its charm lay in stocking well-preserved old editions, some genuinely antiquarian, many out of print, all gathered fetchingly in one room full of gilt-edged spines, the smell of ageing leather creating an enchanting atmosphere. Rao's meticulous care and presentation made every copy desirable.

When I had finished slavering over the books restored, I insisted upon writing about his book shop. But Rao forbade it, relying solely on word of mouth to attract a select customer base. As I got ready to leave his bookshop, he suspected I might sneak a little piece of him after all. He made me promise that I would not write anything. But then 'When can I write about your bookshop?", I asked. He replied, 'When I finally close the bookshop.'

That moment came in March 2013, when he passed away from cancer at 78. Even on his final day, he completed book transactions before turning to his restoration work. A self-taught bibliophile and a perfectionist, Rao restored broken editions to exceptional condition, ensuring his customers held something truly valuable. Despite his passion, he kept a low profile, preferring solitude to study and restore his "antiquarian loot."

Before his death, he quietly sold his collection to a longstanding customer, ensuring the books were preserved. His legacy lives on in the hands of collectors who cherish his devotion to the art of antiquarian book-selling.

What does the phrase "antiquarian loot" refer to in the text?

rare and valuable old books meticulously restored by Madhava Rao

The correct answer is Option (1) → rare and valuable old books meticulously restored by Madhava Rao

The passage describes Madhava Rao's collection as "well-preserved old editions, some genuinely antiquarian," and notes his dedication to restoring these broken editions to "exceptional condition, ensuring his customers held something truly valuable."

The word "antiquarian" means relating to or dealing in antiques or old books. The word "loot" is often used informally to mean valuable goods or a prize/collection, especially one acquired with effort or zeal.

By combining these two, the phrase "antiquarian loot" is an affectionate, self-deprecating term used by Rao to refer to his cherished and valuable collection of old books he meticulously worked on.