Histoire Generale De La Faience Ancienne Francaise et Etrangere Consideree Dans Son Histoire, Sa Nature, Ses Formes et Sa Deccoration

Amiens and Paris: Chez L'Auteur; Librairie A. Raphael Simon, 1874. First Edition. Three Quarter Leather. Fine. Elephant Folio. 1874 and 1876, 200 color plates, each 15.5 by 11 inches, and 1400 marks and monograms. Limited edition copy no. 109 of unspecified number, also signed by Ris Paquot and others. This copy had belonged to H. Descamps, and appears to have been a presentation copy. This massive book, two volumes bound in one, is one of the most sumptuous books ever produced about ceramics and without question, the single most magnificent one dedicated to the history and appreciation of Faience. Ris Paquot wrote other important works about faience, but those should not be confused with this much more lavish production, with its 200 brilliantly colored chromolithographs, which the title page asserts were all retouched by hand! The text is also formidable, tracing the roots of faience to the classical world. It runs 240 oversized pages, including an extensive index. This very rare and valuable book is in fine condition. There is a lighter area surrounding a small square at the base of the spine where there might have once been a stamp of some sort. While it is possible this suggest an ex-library status, there are no other signs, and the superior condition and integrity of the book suggest very much to the contrary. More likely a private collector put something in the spot to mark the book. There are light pencil marks, mainly small numbers on the plates (done by a prior owner who must have wanted to collate the plates), which should be apparent in the photos and all of which can be erased. In a few places someone wrote with what might be ink, but very discreetly, and in a manner that I don't think detracts from the book in any significant way. There is the very occasional fox mark, and I mean, very occasional! The three quarters morocco is fresh, with slight sunning around the spine. Gilt lettering is bright on the spine. The binding is in great shape, which given its weight, is remarkable. The flypaper, etc. has gorgeous marbling. In sum, a very special book, in a very special state. Postage may have to be recalculated especially if purchased abroad given the weight and heft of the book. (Inventory #: 000360)