first edition Hardcover
1947 · France (unspecified where)
by Thetard, Henry
France (unspecified where): Prisma, 1947. 1st Edition. Hardcover. Very Good/Varied Jacket. 4to - over 9¾ - 12" tall. Rare 3 volume version, of which this is numbered 212 of 500 so issued. 271, 335, 42 pp. (3rd volume not fully paginated). Profusely illustrated, with five color plates as well, and comprehensive history of all aspects of the circus, from its inception to the mid-twentieth century, taking in all the various acts and covering everywhere in Europe and the Americas. Third volume is about the Fratellini family, which was a famous family of acrobats and clowns. A thoroughly enjoyable and nostalgic treatment of the subject. Volumes are tight and generally clean, with only very light foxing on a few prelim and closing pages. Last two leaves of volume 2 are sticking together, not affecting main text. DJs for first two volumes, none for third. Vol 1 DJ very chipped on spine and some loss on rear. Vol 2 DJ only on front, and chipped and tears along edges. (Inventory #: 001011)