Charles la Borde

a magnificent set bound by bradel, from the library of prince c. sczaniecki. it is celebrated as one of the most beautiful books of the 18th century, and its first volume especially is recognised as a masterpiece, owing to moreau’s perfection in designing and engraving the plates. he ‘created an idealized world, extending from the countryside to the city, in which … every scene is entrancing’. after a falling-out between author and artist, the final volumes were illustrated by le barbier, le bouteux and saint-quentin. with the author portrait, often lacking; ray seems to call – erroneously – for an additional frontispiece in vol. ii. cohen-de ricci 538-8: ray, french, 49.

24.2 x 16 cm

Dec 9, 2020 • Christie's