“ONE OF CONQUET’S MOST SUCCESSFUL BOOKS”

(GIACOMELLI, Hector, illustrator). THEURIET, Andre. Sous Bois. Paris: L. Conquet, G. Charpentier, 1883. Octavo, contemporary full crushed green morocco, elaborately gilt-decorated spine, raised bands, marbled endpapers, top edge gilt, uncut; original two-page publisher's prospectus and printed paper wrappers (front wrapper hand-colored) bound in. $1000.

Lovely illustrated edition of Theuriet’s enchanting stories of the forest, one of only 150 printed on China paper, with an additional suite of all illustrations printed on Japan, from a total edition of only 500. This copy an unnumbered presentation copy, inscribed by the publisher on the limitation page, “Mon ami Ch. Chardon, L. Conquet.” Beautifully bound in full morocco-gilt by Chambolle-Duru.

"The illustrations for this reissue were entrusted to Hector Giacomelli… The delighted Theuriet described 'Giaco' as 'the artist who was best acquainted with the familiar life of birds, plants, and insects, and who knew how to depict it with as much charm as delicacy.' He feared, indeed, that so presented his little book might look like 'a farmer in his Sunday best.' In fact, Giacomelli's 78 small designs… are in perfect harmony with the author's youthful reveries, and the outcome is one of Conquet's most successful books" (Ray). Sous Bois first appeared in 1867. Text in the original French. Ray, Art of the French Illustrated Book 289.

Fine condition. A splendid production, beautifully bound.