Les Paradis Artificiels: Opium and Haschisch

Paris: Poulet-Malassis et De Broise, 1860. First edition, first issue. First edition, first issue with the correct date of 1860 on the front wrapper. [iv], iv, 305 pp. Disbound gatherings of pages (typically 24 or so per gathering) with original wraps laid in, front wrap detached from spine and rear wrap, but complete. Other than the lack of a binding, this copy is in very nice shape with clean, bright contents. Spine and covers professionally reinforced. Faint spot of discoloration to front wrap, a little foxing along gatherings where spine would be. Housed in custom card chemise and slipcase.

A rare landmark work of 19th century drug literature, which provided the term "artificial paradise" for the drug experience. "The great French symbolist poet was one of the original members of Le Club des Haschischins, which included, at one time or another, the cream of French literary society. Health problems made him a frequent user of opium as well. Baudelaire's poetic intensity, combined with a scientific detachment, place his work among the greatest accounts of the philosophy of drug experience" (Phantastica 14, referring to this copy). Carteret I:126; Clouzot, p. 27. A Horowitz high spot.